Certifications and training programs — especially in energy trading and risk management — have become a popular entry point for people looking to break into the field.
But they aren’t a silver bullet. Like most things in ETRM, context matters. The value of a certification depends on your goals, your background, and how you plan to apply what you learn.
Let’s walk through what they offer, how real-world experience compares, and how to make sure your investment actually pays off.
Learn more in our blog post, “What Is an ETRM System and How Does It Work for Power Companies?”
Why certifications matter (and when they don’t)
There’s a dual purpose to certifications in this space.
On one hand, if you’re coming into energy trading or ETRM from another industry, a certification helps show your versatility. It says: “I’ve taken the initiative. I’m serious about this.” And that matters — especially when you’re job hunting or trying to break into the field.
On the other hand, certifications can help with optics. Whether you’re seeking a promotion, shifting roles internally, or just trying to grow, being able to point to a credential can make a difference. Sometimes it’s about more than just the content — it’s about showing others, on paper, that you’re engaged and taking ownership of your development.
Devin Elverdi, ETRM product manager at PCI Energy Solutions, explains the role certifications play in breaking into energy trading or leveling up inside it.
The difference between learning theory and living it
Certifications and training programs usually teach theory — and that’s helpful. But it’s nothing like sitting on a trade floor when a unit goes down, or being in a settlement role when a major accounting event hits.
There’s just no substitute for real-world intensity. It’s one thing to simulate a trade. It’s another to wake up early, manage a load spike, or rely on your platform to guide decisions in real time.
Those moments teach you more than any class can.
Where people need support inside the platform
What I see most often is this: people inherit workflows without knowing why they exist.
They’ve been trained on how to use a system — not on why it works the way it does. That creates friction when switching platforms or adapting to a new process. One of the biggest values we offer at PCI is helping users reevaluate those workflows: Does this process serve you? Is it scalable? Does it match industry best practice?
Transitioning to a new system is a chance to do things better. But that starts with understanding why you’re doing them in the first place.
Devin Elverdi, ETRM product manager at PCI Energy Solutions, explains why changing platforms is a good opportunity to revisit your workflows — and why most teams don’t. Want to hear more from Devin? Watch the full Hot Takes video for more insights on ETRM certifications and making sure your investment pays off.
What to look for in a certification
If you’re considering a certification, I’d recommend keeping it simple.
- Go practical: Find something that maps to your interests and day-to-day work
- Watch the cost: There are a lot of overpriced courses that offer very little value
- Start small: Don’t spend 100 hours on something until you know you like it
- Think fit: Choose programs that align with the career path you’re aiming for
Certifications can be a great stepping stone — but they’re just one part of your learning journey. Use them to get in the door, then lean into hands-on experience and curiosity. That’s where the real growth happens.
See how PCI supports growth from trade to settlement
Whether you’re pursuing an energy trading and risk management certification or learning on the job, PCI’s ETRM platform supports both new and experienced teams.
