Earning Criteria

• Professional Technical Specialists at Level 3 must continually develop and maintain their knowledge of the technology trends and techniques in the IT industry, so they are able to leverage that body of knowledge into feasible solutions.
• Professional Technical Specialists at Level 3 are required to continually develop their ability to provide effectively leadership in the ever-changing environment in which they must practice.
• Professional Technical Specialists at Level 3 are required to develop and enhance their knowledge and understanding of the business and industry context of their clients in order to make appropriate recommendations and decisions.
• Professional Technical Specialists at Level 3 are required to make contributions to the profession, through publications, teaching, research, development of training, contributions to Open Source, or contributions to standards bodies or professional organizations that seek to define innovative new technical solutions, strategies, research, or technologies.
• Professional Technical Specialists at Level 3 are expected to contribute to the growth of the community of professional Technical Specialists and facilitate the professional development of multiple aspiring Technical Specialists, especially those seeking certification, through teaching, serving on peer review boards, and/or coaching. Mentoring others in their career progression as a Technical Specialist is also required.
• Candidates are expected to have achieved Open Master Certified Technical Specialist (Open CTS) Level 2 certification before applying for this badge.