Manufacturing Skill Standards Council

What Manufacturing Skill Standards Council does

Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) is a 501(c)3 non-profit, industry-led certification body founded in 1998 and headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia. The organization develops and administers nationally portable, ISO 17024-accredited certification programs and training for frontline technicians in advanced manufacturing and supply chain logistics. Its core portfolio comprises the Certified Production Technician (CPT) 4.0, Certified Logistics Technician (CLT) 4.0, Certified Forklift Technician (CFT), and Certified Technician-Supply Chain Automation (CT-SCA) programs, plus hands-on assessment add-ons (CPT+ Skill Boss and Skill Boss-Logistics, built by Amatrol). To date, MSSC has administered over 300,000 assessments across 2,000+ authorized Assessment Centers nationwide, and its credentials are NAM-Endorsed and adopted by the U.S. Department of Education and USDOL as the basis for workforce frameworks.

The technical stack includes an online e-learning LMS (powered in part by OpusWorks), computer-based assessments developed with NOCTI, hands-on Skill Boss training devices, and a public National Certification Registry for credential verification. Distribution operates through a multi-tiered channel: 12 regional Training Solution Providers with 95 field representatives covering all 50 states, 10 Master Training Centers at partner community colleges, Military-Friendly Assessment Centers tied to Army/Navy/Marine/Air Force COOL programs, and state-level consortiums offering discounted e-learning. Standards are reviewed annually and integrate nine Industry 4.0 domains including AI, IIoT, additive manufacturing, and advanced materials.

MSSC monetizes primarily through per-candidate certification assessment fees, annual recertification ($75 per cert, $100 combined CPT+CLT), instructor authorization packages, online e-learning course subscriptions, and channel licensing/royalties to Training Solution Providers. Pricing for assessments, courses, and instructor packages is largely quote-based and distributed through the TSP network. MSSC serves a hybrid customer base: employers (Harley-Davidson, Sandia National Labs, Steelcase, Visteon, Target, Lockheed Martin, Rockwell Automation, Ben E. Keith, Randstad) that embed MSSC credentials into hiring and upskilling; high schools and community colleges integrating certifications into CTE pathways; workforce investment boards; and individual job seekers, incumbent workers, and military personnel transitioning to civilian careers. The organization is governed by a Board composed of senior executives from industry, association, and academic stakeholders.

Name

Manufacturing Skill Standards Council

Legal name

Manufacturing Skill Standards Council

Website

https://msscusa.org

Company type

Private

Founded year

1998

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

1–10 employees

Short description

Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) is a 501(c)3 non-profit that develops and administers ISO 17024-accredited, NAM-endorsed certification programs and training for frontline technicians in advanced manufacturing and supply chain logistics, serving employers, educators, workforce boards, and individual candidates across all 50 US states.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Workforce Certification Services

NAICS

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services (54)

SIC

Services-Educational Services (8200)

akta.pro primary industry

Credentialing, Certification Prep & Exam Training (BPACANAJ)

akta.pro secondary industries

Certification & Licensing Exam Management Platforms (EDAFADAG), Supply Chain, Logistics & Procurement Certifications (EDAAANAK), Skilled Trades, Safety & Compliance Certification Prep (OSHA, HAZMAT, welding, electrical, HVAC) (EDANAIAM)

Keywords

• Manufacturing certification
• Workforce credentialing
• Supply chain training
• Production technician
• Logistics certification

Headquarters

HQ city

Alexandria

HQ country

United States

HQ region

North America

Offices10 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Technology or R&D, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Others

Revenue model

1. Certification Assessments: MSSC generates revenue through fees for certification assessments in advanced manufacturing (CPT, CPT+), supply chain logistics (CLT), forklift maintenance (CFT), and supply chain automation (CT-SCA). Candidates pay for assessments to earn individual certificates and full certifications.
2. Recertification Fees: Annual recertification requirements every five years with point-based recertification system. Fees: $75 per certification, $100 for both CPT and CLT recertification.
3. Online E-Learning Courses: MSSC sells access to online training courses aligned with certification programs, including modular courses for CPT, CLT, CFT, and CT-SCA. Delivered through LMS with 180-day student access.
4. Instructor Training: Fees for instructor authorization training including packages with materials, presentations, course outlines, and access to e-learning portal. Training offered for CPT, CPT+, CLT, CFT, and CT-SCA programs.
5. Training Solution Provider Sales: Regional Training Solution Providers sell courseware and training materials across all 50 states, with MSSC receiving revenue through these authorized distributors.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion3 records

Distribution channels6 records

Marketing channels7 records

Core offering

MSSC is an industry-led nonprofit that develops and awards nationally recognized certifications for front-line workers in advanced manufacturing and supply chain logistics, including Certified Production Technician (CPT 4.0), Certified Logistics Technician (CLT 4.0), Certified Logistics Associate (CLA), Certified Forklift Technician (CFT), and Certified Technician – Supply Chain Automation (CT-SCA). Certifications are delivered through an e-learning and computer-based assessment platform, proctored testing at 2,000+ authorized assessment centers, and proprietary hands-on skill-validation devices (CPT+ Skill Boss and Skill Boss-Logistics).

Product overview

MSSC is an industry-led 501(c)3 non-profit offering a portfolio of certification programs and training solutions for front-line technicians in advanced manufacturing and supply chain logistics. The core offerings include: Certified Production Technician (CPT) 4.0 as the flagship manufacturing certification with an optional CPT+ Skill Boss hands-on assessment add-on; Certified Logistics Technician (CLT) 4.0 comprising the Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) foundational certificate and mid-level CLT certification; Certified Forklift Technician (CFT) for material handling equipment service; and Certified Technician-Supply Chain Automation (CT-SCA) with Skill Boss-Logistics for automated systems. All programs are backed by online e-learning courses and authorized instructor training, operating through a nationwide network of 2,000+ assessment centers.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• Certified Production Technician (CPT 4.0) Industry-validated certification for front-line production technicians in advanced manufacturing, covering core manufacturing competencies; delivered via e-learning and computer-based assessment at authorized centers for U.S. manufacturers and training providers.
• Certified Logistics Technician (CLT 4.0) Industry-validated certification for front-line logistics technicians covering core supply chain logistics competencies; delivered via e-learning and computer-based assessment for logistics employers and training providers.
• Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) Foundational credential for entry-level workers in supply chain logistics, providing industry-recognized certification of baseline logistics knowledge for new hires and trainees.
• Certified Forklift Technician (CFT) Certification program validating competency in forklift operation, safety, and material handling, targeted at warehouse, distribution, and manufacturing environments.
• Certified Technician - Supply Chain Automation (CT-SCA) Certification addressing the technician skills needed for supply chain automation systems and equipment, supporting employers adopting automation in distribution and logistics operations.
• CPT+ Skill Boss Proprietary hands-on training and assessment device that validates psychomotor skills for Certified Production Technician candidates, used by training providers and assessment centers.
• Skill Boss-Logistics Proprietary hands-on training and assessment device that validates psychomotor skills for Certified Logistics Technician candidates, used by training providers and assessment centers.

Quantifiable outcome

• 84% of executives surveyed agree there is a talent shortage in U.S. manufacturing, and MSSC certifications help close this gap
• +1 more outcomes

Named customers11 records

Segments7 records

Ideal customer profiles3 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature4 records

Partnerships

17 partnerships are on record, tiered core, regional and minor.

• National Association of Manufacturers (NAM)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 4 March 2009NAM-Endorsed Manufacturing Skills Certification System with founding partners including ACT, NIMS, AWS, and SME. Goals include addressing workforce education needs, providing career pathways, and aligning public/private investments in education and training.
• Illinois Manufacturers Association (IMA)regionalChannel Partner/ Reseller/ Distributor · 26 January 2009IMA has exclusive rights to distribute and market the MSSC Certification System in Illinois. IMA Board resolution encourages its 4,000 members to take MSSC certificates into account in recruitment and hiring.
• Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC)regionalStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 July 2007TMAC was a critical partner in MSSC's development of the CLT Certification System under a July 2007 USDOL grant to the North Central Texas Workforce Board.
• AmatrolcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerAmatrol is one of the world's leading providers of manufacturing learning systems. They supply interactive, multi-media and simulation-based electronic learning solutions for CPT and CFT certifications. Amatrol invented the Skill Boss and Skill Boss-Logistics hands-on training and assessment devices used in MSSC's CPT+ and CT-SCA programs.
• NOCTI (National Occupational Competencies Testing Institute)coreTechnology or IntegrationNOCTI and its wholly owned subsidiary NOCTI Business Solutions developed MSSC's CPT certification assessments, CLA and CLT assessments, CFT assessment, and CT-SCA assessments using their ISO 17024 accredited process.
• Ready IndianaregionalChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorProgram of the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, authorized reseller of MSSC Training for CPT and CLT certifications. Business-to-Business model assists employers with implementing MSSC training internally and certifying company trainers.
• OpusWorks (by The Quality Group)coreTechnology or IntegrationOpusWorks has provided customized e-Learning solutions since 1992 for corporations, government, and academic institutions. Their platform powers MSSC's CLT certification program.
• Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association (MHEDA)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerMHEDA partnered with MSSC to create the CFT certification program for entry-level forklift technicians, enhancing performance in material handling.
• National Center for Supply Chain Automation (NCSCA)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerNSF-funded National Center collaborated with MSSC on development of CT-SCA certification program for technicians who install, operate, support, upgrade, and maintain automated material handling equipment.
• Material Handling Industry (MHI)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerMHI collaborated with MSSC on development of CT-SCA certification program for supply chain automation technicians.
• Labor Institute for Training (L.I.F.T)minorStrategic or Co-development PartnerOfficial training arm of the Indiana State AFL-CIO. Lead developer of MSSC's current authorized courseware for CPT certification system.
• Working for America Institute (WAI)minorStrategic or Co-development PartnerAFL-CIO union-sponsored nonprofit dedicated to creating good jobs. Critical partner in development of MSSC's manufacturing standards.
• FANUC AmericacoreGTM or Marketing PartnerFANUC America and MSSC agreed to co-market the stackability of their certifications to meet the shortage of skilled industrial robotics and automation operators (announced 2021).
• ACT (American College Testing)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerFounding partner of NAM-Endorsed Manufacturing Skills Certification System. ACT NCRC (National Career Readiness Certificate) recognized alongside MSSC CPT.
• National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerFounding partner of NAM-Endorsed Manufacturing Skills Certification System. NIMS machining credentials recognized alongside MSSC CPT.
• American Welding Society (AWS)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerFounding partner of NAM-Endorsed Manufacturing Skills Certification System. AWS Certified Welder credentials recognized alongside MSSC CPT.
• Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerFounding partner of NAM-Endorsed Manufacturing Skills Certification System. SME certification programs recognized alongside MSSC CPT.

Scale indicators7 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Direct peers

• ACT WorkKeys / National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC): ACT's NCRC is a foundational workforce credential recognized alongside MSSC CPT inside the NAM-Endorsed system. Both compete and complement each other for employer hiring and workforce-board adoption.
• American Welding Society (AWS): AWS Certified Welder credentials sit alongside MSSC CPT inside the NAM-Endorsed system. It is a direct co-founding-partner skills credentialing body addressing skilled trades technician populations.
• National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS): NIMS provides industry-recognized machining and metalworking credentials across the same NAM-Endorsed Manufacturing Skills Certification System as MSSC. It is a direct co-founding-partner credentialing body serving overlapping manufacturing technician populations.
• Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME): SME delivers manufacturing credentials and is a founding partner of the NAM-Endorsed system alongside MSSC. It directly competes for the same manufacturing technician certification wallet at employers like Lockheed Martin and Harley-Davidson.
• FANUC America: FANUC America co-markets its robotics certifications with MSSC's CPT for stackability in advanced manufacturing automation. It directly complements and partly substitutes for MSSC's automation credentials in industrial robotics.
• National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER): NCCER is a 501(c)(3) industry-led credentialing body delivering nationally portable skilled-trades certifications. It is structurally analogous to MSSC in non-profit status, industry governance, and trade-technician credentialing.
• Project Management Institute (PMI): PMI is an ANSI/ISO 17024-accredited personnel credentialing body operating a global exam-based certification system with recurring renewal. It mirrors MSSC's accreditation-driven, exam-monetized, recertification-based revenue model.
• CompTIA: CompTIA is an ISO 17024-accredited vendor-neutral certification body delivering portable technician credentials across multiple industries. It mirrors MSSC's business model of accredited certification, exam-based revenue and stackable learning paths.

Others

• NOCTI (National Occupational Competency Testing Institute): NOCTI and its subsidiary NOCTI Business Solutions developed MSSC's CPT, CLA/CLT, CFT and CT-SCA assessments under ISO 17024. It functions as MSSC's core assessment infrastructure partner rather than a direct competitor.

Broad incumbents

• SkillsUSA: SkillsUSA is a national student-and-workforce skills organization serving overlapping CTE, manufacturing and logistics audiences with competitions and credentials. It is a broader workforce development incumbent in the same MSSC customer base rather than a direct certification-credentialing competitor.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat6 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• Xx.com/MSSCCredentials
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/mssc-usa
• Facebookfacebook.com/MSSCUSA

Compliance2 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Manufacturing Skill Standards Council