Our Story
In 2007, Crane Institute of America Certification (CIC) was founded with the support of leading industry experts and organizations. CIC is an independent and autonomous organization that provides objective and impartial assessments of the knowledge, skills, and abilities of crane operators.
CIC’s certification program is the result of the input and experience of a broad range of crane industry subject matter experts, assessment professionals, individuals from crane-related companies, industry groups, and other parties interested in the certification of crane operator personnel. The Governing Council serves as CIC’s governing body and is tasked with providing leadership, direction, and oversight of all CIC certification programs. Advisory Committee members, along with members of various sub-committees, also serve as subject matter experts, offering relevant input about our certification programs and supporting the ongoing efforts of the company.
CIC is now accredited by ANAB, the accrediting division of ANSI. CIC mobile crane operator certifications are nationally accredited and OSHA-recognized. They are accepted by state and municipal license boards across the U.S.
Our Purpose
Our mission is to provide lifting industry personnel with a common sense, effective, and affordable pathway to achieve and maintain compliance with OSHA level requirements and ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) standards through our nationally accredited certification programs.
The three-fold purpose of CIC is to:
1. Assess the knowledge, skills, and abilities of crane operators through the combination of valid, fair, and unbiased knowledge-based Virtual Exams and hands-on Practical Examinations.
2. Offer efficient and cost-effective accredited certifications.
3. Provide the most “real world” knowledge-based and skills-based exam assessments in the industry.
Our CEO & Founder, James J. Headley Jr.
For nearly two decades, Jim has shaped Crane Institute Certification into what it is today. With extensive experience in the crane and rigging industry as a crane operator, trainer, consultant, and expert witness, Jim has authored numerous handbooks, workbooks, and training materials for the Crane Institute of America, which is considered “The Standard.” He has also written and published numerous articles and has even appeared on the History Channel’s “Modern Marvels.” Jim’s blend of practical experience and educational background, combined with the efforts of CIC Governing Council Members, Advisory Committee Members, and Subject Matter Experts, has established a sensible, effective, and affordable route to certification.