The Electronic Security Association (ESA) is proud to announce a new initiative to enhance the value and visibility of its training certifications. Beginning immediately, individuals who successfully complete ESA’s Certified Alarm Technician (CAT) Level 1 course will be awarded a verified digital badge through Credly, the leading digital credentialing platform. 

This new partnership empowers ESA-certified professionals to easily showcase their credentials online—whether on LinkedIn, digital resumes, email signatures, or professional portfolios. Each digital badge includes detailed metadata verifying the recipient’s achievement, the criteria required, and the issuing authority. 

How it works: 

• Enroll in the CAT Level 1 Certification 

• Complete all course requirements 

• Pass the proctored exam 

• Look for email from admin@credly.com in the inbox linked to your ESA Learning Portal 

• Click “Accept Your Badge” to begin the credentialing process 

• Register your badge in Credly with the same email address connected to your ESA Learning Portal 

• Showcase your new credential—share your digital badge on LinkedIn, your resume, or email signature 

The CAT Level 1 Certification is a foundational achievement in the security and life safety industry, offering a clear road map for professional growth. It requires students to meet rigorous training and field experience standards, ensuring that they are equipped with the core skills and knowledge to succeed in the field. ESA’s CAT Level 1 is widely recognized as the industry’s most comprehensive entry-level technician certification. 

“ESA is committed to delivering training that leads to meaningful career opportunities,” says Jillian Bateman-McIntosh, Chief Operating Officer of ESA. “By partnering with Credly, we’re enabling security professionals to better demonstrate the value of their expertise in a verifiable, portable format that aligns with today’s digital landscape.” 

Unlike traditional paper certificates, Credly digital badges are secure, shareable, and backed by standards-compliant metadata. They validate an individual’s knowledge to customers, supervisors, peers, and potential employers, reinforcing the credibility of the certification and the professional behind it. 

This initiative reflects ESA’s continued investment in workforce development and its mission to advance the electronic security and life safety industry. 

To sign up for the CAT Level 1 online course and begin your journey toward certification and digital recognition, visit: www.courses.esaweb.org/cat-level-1 

This is just the beginning—ESA’s National Training School will be expanding its digital credentialing efforts, with more certifications set to offer Credly digital badges in the coming months. These new offerings will further support technicians and security professionals in showcasing their expertise and advancing their careers with verified, portable recognition of their skills.