By Khali Henderson

The Technology Channel Association (TCA) announced Tuesday the official launch of its Certified Telecommunications Professional (CTP) program, the first association-sponsored certification for indirect sales agents.

The program was first announced in August with a Sept. 30 launch date.

Nearly a year in the making, the CTP program seeks to build an industry standard around technical concepts and business practices. The exam measures proficiency in various elements of the industry, including voice communications, industry history, Internet applications, telecommunications administration, core telecommunications concepts, data communications, network security/management and agent business best practices.

Certification, a stated goal of the TCA when it formed in summer 2008, is hoped to provide agents with credentials and vendors with assurance that they are working with reputable agents.

Exam applicants must be members of TCA. The association is waiving membership dues normally $500  for agents who are interested in joining the group. In addition, TCA has created a set of Prerequisites that CTP candidates must meet based on a combination of industry experience and advanced education.

The exam costs $199, which includes preparation study material and a certification test voucher good for one exam.

Swoyer Technologies Inc. will administer the CTP program and exams for TCA.