Systems Software Integrator (SSI) Certification

More frequently than ever, software controls critical physical systems. These cyberphysical integrations must be executed with rigorous adherence to guiding principles and best practices that ensure reliable and secure systems. SSI professional certification can be a key part of the solution.

THREATS that Systems Software Integrators work to mitigate:

• Decentralized responsible-in-charge.
  More than two dozen SSI duties are being handled by nine different job titles according to NSPE research. In too many environments, no single person is responsible for secure integration of systems. The certified SSI professional becomes that single point of contact, with stop-work authority, for certifying compliance and securing the software supply chain end-to-end.

• Exponential growth in cyber-attacks.
  Cybersecurity must be a consideration in any critical system. Attacks are now an everyday reality that threaten even the most highly secure systems across all sectors. SSIs are cyber-informed professionals who use proper methodologies to secure systems with proper fallback and recovery systems.

• Increased reliance on AI.
  AI serves as a powerful tool to advance industry faster than ever. But with that power comes questions about efficacy, safety, security, and ethics. SSI professionals demonstrate a commitment to stay current with the rapidly developing AI landscape.

• Obsolescence of siloed systems.
  Software is increasingly incorporated into smart operational technology (OT) systems. An informed and qualified SSI guards against potential failure of services through a comprehensive testing plan that ensures all system components are thoroughly tested to meet security, performance, and compliance requirements before deployment.

• Decentralized source code.
  Open-source software (OSS) makes up much of the sub-components of large software systems. This creates incredible efficiencies and savings, but also potential vulnerabilities that an SSI is adept at managing. A certified SSI has the acumen to attest to a software bill of materials (SBOM) and to ensure zero trust architecture.

ANNOUNCING the SSI Pilot Release

We are excited to announce the Systems Software Integrator (SSI) certification program is now available in the pilot phase. Participants in the pilot program have the unique opportunity to be among the first to become SSI certified while also helping to shape the future of the program. Pilot testing is a crucial stage in the development of a certification program. Input and performance is used to validate exam content calibrate and scoring to ensure the program meets the highest standards of quality and reliability.

Benefits of Participating:

1. Reduced Application Fee: Pilot testers will enjoy a significantly reduced application fee of $245, compared to the regular fee of $490.

2. Help Define the Program: By participating in the pilot program, your input will contribute to the establishment of an industry standard.
3. Early Adoption: The pilot program is an opportunity to be a member of the first group to obtain SSI certification, demonstrating your expertise and commitment to professional growth.

Important Note on Pilot:

TESTING WINDOW: The testing window is open now. Once your application is approved, you are encouraged to schedule your exam right away because exam appointments can be limited in some areas. This exam can be scheduled at a Pearson VUE testing center or via remote proctoring from your home or work.

RESULTS: As a pilot tester, you will not receive your exam results immediately. The pilot testing process includes a thorough analysis of all candidate performances and feedback, which takes additional time. Results will be communicated once the analysis is complete and the final exam is validated. This process will take an estimated three months from the completion of the pilot administration.

EXAM PREP: Certification exams are designed to assess your competency based on your current knowledge and ability. Exam prep courses and practice exams can be helpful in reinforcing content, but are not necessary to succeed on the exam. A practice exam is under development for the SSI but is not currently available.

 

Applications are now done electronically in the NICET portal. Please log into your NICET account or if you are a first time applicant, create one here.
 

Applications for the SSI pilot program are now being accepted.

Requirements for Systems Software Integrator certification include the following:

3 YEARS EXPERIENCE with Bachelor’s degree or higher
or
6 YEARS EXPERIENCE with high school diploma or equivalent.

Candidates must submit an application, where you will demonstrate how your work history description meets specific industry related experience.

Once your application is approved, you will schedule your certification exam.

For help completing your application, download the SSI Application Guidance document.

Your Privacy

When you apply for any NICET certification, all information is held in confidence. Your status, including approval or denial of application, exam scheduling, exam scores, and retake information is confidential and will not be shared. Only individuals you have identified for employment verification purposes will have knowledge that you have applied for certification.

For more details, visit www.nicet.org/about-us/policies/policy3.

SSI Content Outline 2024

SSI References 2024

What is the Test Like?

The Systems Software Integrator (SSI) certification exam includes 125 multiple choice questions. You will have 135 minutes (2 hours 15 minutes) to complete the exam, including the NDA (non disclosure agreement) and tutorial.

The exam will be administered on a computer at a proctored test center managed by a test administration company. These exams are normally closed book; any exception to this policy will be stated in the test information for that program. The content outline for the program will serve as the guide to what will be covered on the test. Each test session begins with a tutorial allowing you to get used to the process.

Each test session begins with a tutorial allowing you to get used to the process. During the test, you will see one question at a time, but can move forward or backwards to view or review other questions. Some questions include a graphic or document to be viewed by clicking on the exhibit button. Exhibits may be in color. Correct answers will usually be selected by clicking the boxes next to the answers. In a few questions, you may be presented a picture and asked to click on the part of the picture that correctly answers the question. Questions may have more than one correct answer, but in those cases, you will be told how many answers to choose. You will receive your score at the conclusion of your test session.

NOTE: You will be required to sign an NDA (Non-Disclosure Agreement) to begin your examination. Failure to accept will result in a failed score and fees will be forfeited. The NDA that will be displayed is:

You must accept the Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) below in order to take this exam.

I understand that NICET tests and test questions are owned and copyrighted by NICET and affirm that I will not share the content of any NICET examination with any other person. I acknowledge that divulging the contents of this examination to others in any manner is expressly forbidden and may subject me to sanctions.”

Your appointment time will be 10 minutes longer to cover an introductory tutorial section before your exam begins. Any unused time will NOT extend the time allotted for answering exam questions.

Calculators

A calculator is built into the exam. Please see the CBT Calculator Preview for information about the onscreen calculator. Candidates may not bring any additional calculators into the testing room.

Applicants with a disability as defined in Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act who may be placed at a disadvantage when taking a NICET certification examination may request a testing accommodation by contacting test@nicet.org prior to scheduling testing. Each request will be evaluated individually and every effort will be made to offer reasonable accommodations to qualifying applicants. There will be no additional charges to qualifying applicants for these accommodations. NICET will contact the applicant to arrange a mutually suitable accommodation.