Bridging industry and education with one common language

The National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) sets the benchmark for excellence in workforce competency. Our rigorous, industry-driven standards are accessible to educational institutions committed to preparing students for successful careers. NIMS credentials are recognized nationwide and globally, earned by students, trainees, apprentices, employees, and military personnel alike.

By achieving NIMS credentials, individuals gain a distinct competitive advantage in the job market by proving they possess the skills and knowledge required to meet and exceed industry expectations. Each credential validates a candidate’s ability to perform critical job functions based on duty-specific standards developed in close collaboration with industry leaders. These credentials serve as a trusted measure of job readiness and technical proficiency across the advanced manufacturing and skilled trades sectors.

NIMS Credentialing Formula

NIMS credentials are designed to evaluate true performance, and most credentials have two components:

• An Exam to evaluate knowledge required for the role
• An assessment of the knowledge necessary for the role
• A Performance Evaluation to evaluate ability to execute the common tasks demanded by the role
• A Performance Evaluation to determine the participant's ability to execute the everyday tasks demanded by the role

The topics covered in a particular exam are identified in the roles “knowledge requirements”, available on the job role page.

Performance Evaluation Types

Depending on the credential, Performance Evaluations are available in at least one of the following types:

• CAR (Credentialing Achievement Record) – complete list of hands-on skills checks (competencies)
  • Evaluation Method: Observation/Verification of skills checks by an evaluator
• Project – machine an industry-designed NIMS part to print specifications
  • Evaluation Method: Inspection of completed part
• Performance Measure – Complete list of hands-on tasks performed on actual or simulated workplace activities
  • Evaluation Method: Observation of tasks by evaluator, and inspection of completed part (if applicable)

Exams and Performance Evaluations are created and maintained by NIMS, and administered by organizations registered with NIMS.

Credentialing Process

Organizations, such as schools or apprenticeship programs, that wish to credential their participants in NIMS standards can register their organization at https://testing.nims-skills.org/portal/public/register/org. Once verified by NIMS, organizations are onboarded to the NIMS Testing center and STS platforms.  Where they can purchase NIMS credentials, assign credentials to candidates, and designate exam proctors and performance evaluators.

Credentials are intended to serve as a summative assessment for educational programs.