Contract Compliance

Choosing the Right Certification for Procurement Professionals in Aerospace Manufacturing: APICS CSCP vs. American Purchasing Society CPP

In today’s competitive aerospace manufacturing industry, ongoing professional development can significantly enhance your career prospects. Many organizations offer certification programs to validate expertise in supply chain management and purchasing. If your company is willing to reimburse certification training, you might be wondering which credential — the APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) or the American Purchasing Society Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) — will provide the most value in the recruitment market. Additionally, you may be considering whether pursuing both certifications is advantageous, or if alternative options might better align with your career goals.

Understanding the Certifications

• APICS CSCP
  The Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) offered by APICS (now part of the Association for Supply Chain Management, ASCM) is a globally recognized credential that focuses on end-to-end supply chain management. It covers procurement, logistics, operations, and strategy, emphasizing integrated supply chain solutions. This certification is highly regarded across industries, including aerospace, manufacturing, and logistics.

• American Purchasing Society CPP
  The Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) from the American Purchasing Society concentrates specifically on procurement and purchasing best practices. It is tailored for professionals involved primarily in sourcing, negotiation, and vendor management within various industries, including manufacturing.

Which Certification is Preferred in the Aerospace Manufacturing Sector?

In the aerospace industry, supply chain complexity and the demand for integrated management skills make the CSCP particularly valuable. It demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the entire supply chain, which is critical for roles that encompass strategic planning and cross-functional coordination.

However, the CPP provides specialized knowledge tailored to procurement operations, which also plays a vital role in aerospace manufacturing, particularly in vendor negotiations, purchasing policies, and supply continuity.

Is Pursuing Both Certifications Recommended?

Obtaining both certifications can showcase a well-rounded skill set — strategic supply chain capabilities alongside procurement expertise. Nevertheless, consider the time, effort, and cost involved; the value gained should align with your career objectives and current job responsibilities. In many cases, choosing one certification that best matches your role and aspirations may be more practical, especially if certifications have overlapping content or if employer preferences lean toward a particular credential.

Are There Other Certifications with Greater Value?

Depending on your specific career path within aerospace manufacturing, other certifications might offer additional benefits:

• Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM): Offered by the Institute for Supply