The program provides companies with a standard to gauge their in-house DTCC expertise, and helps strengthen their continuity planning by providing a map where DTCC-related skills reside. Employees benefit through expansion of their skills, continuing education, and career development.

To become certified, candidates must pass a challenging exam consisting of multiple-choice questions. The exam is based on the critical job activities performed by individuals who process transactions through DTCC's subsidiaries. The demonstration of skills and knowledge represents a professional level of expertise whereby a certified individual can:

• Identify requirements, practices, and systems necessary to interact with DTCC
• Recognize and resolve both common and complex situations that may arise when using DTCC applications.

The Certified Specialist designation will be valid for two years, after which specialists can maintain their certified status by completing continuing education units or successfully passing the latest version of the certification exam. DTCC Learning will provide ongoing information to ensure customers keep current with continuing education offerings and industry developments affecting DTCC products and services.

The DTCC certification program supports continuing education and career development, which are important issues for many corporations today.