Southern Arkansas University Tech's Production Technician (CPT) program provides skills-based training that leads to demonstrative mastery of the core competencies of manufacturing production at the front-line (entry-level through front-line supervisor) through successful completion of the certification assessments. The goal of the certification program is to raise the level of performance of production workers both to assist the individuals in finding higher-wage jobs and to help employers ensure their workforce increases the company’s productivity and competitiveness.

The CPT program consists of four individual courses and certificate modules: Safety; Quality Practices & Measurement; Manufacturing Processes & Production; and Maintenance Awareness. Candidates must earn the four individual certificates to receive the full Manufacturing Skills Standards Council (MSSC) CPT certification.

Attending full-time, a student can complete the program in one semester, while SAU Tech Career Academy high school and part-time students can finish in four semesters. Upon completion, students earn a 12 credit-hour certificate of proficiency and are eligible to take the MSSC certification exams.