Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP)
What is CESP™ Certification?
The CESP™ program is the first in the nation to create national guidelines to validate and support the training currently provided in the field. The certification program falls under the oversight of the Employment Support Professional Certification Council (ESPCC), established by the APSE Board of Directors. Unlike training programs that provide a certificate of completion, the CESP™ certification sets a standard of knowledge and distinguishes employment support professionals who have shown they have the skill and competence to perform the requirements of the job. Created by subject matter experts and leaders in the field of disability employment, the CESP™ exam seeks to define the benchmarks for knowledge and competency in the field in the following areas:
- Application of Core Values and Principles to Practice & Legislation and Funding
- Individualized Assessment and Employment / Career Planning
- Community Research and Job Development
- Workplace and Related Supports
- Ongoing Supports
The Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP™) credential recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a sufficient level of knowledge and skill to provide integrated employment services to a variety of populations.
As of May 2019, there are 4,184 Certified Employment Support Professionals (CESPs™) throughout the country. Did you know that there are 40 Certified Employment Support Professionals in Virginia and two are employed with Employment Advocates Group?
Individuals who earn the CESP™ credential have demonstrated knowledge of the facilitation and advocacy skills necessary to help establish and expand equitable employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. CESP™s also raise awareness of benefits within the business community, and promote social change that fosters an independent, productive lifestyle for individuals with disabilities.
The CESP™ credential is intended to help employers, employees and potential employees by increasing the visibility of – and access to – competent individuals in the profession.
You can gain more knowledge about CESP by watching this short video here