Six Sigma is a highly effective method for managing large and complex processes in companies and organizations. Professionals who use the Six Sigma methodology often complete advanced levels of certification, starting at the white belt level and working their way up to the black belt levels and master black belts.
Earning a Black Belt in Six Sigma is a great accomplishment that can showcase your advanced knowledge and skills. In this article, we’ll look at what a Six Sigma Black Belt is, the benefits of getting certified, and how to earn a Six Sigma Black Belt so you can advance in your career.
What is a Six Sigma Black Belt?
The Six Sigma Black Belt certification represents a professional’s advanced knowledge of the Six Sigma Strategic Project Management System, which focuses on data and statistics to measure the effectiveness, performance, and success of processes in an organization. Many companies use Six Sigma to improve and streamline operations in project management, business intelligence, and overall functionality.
IT, statistician, and analysis professionals often use Six Sigma methods to monitor business performance in quantitative rather than qualitative terms. Earning a Six Sigma Master Black Belt Certification demonstrates a higher level of knowledge in systems applications. There are five certifications in Six Sigma where each “belt” represents your skill level:
- White Belt: The Six Sigma White Belt is an introductory certification level that demonstrates your ability to master the core principles of the program.
- Yellow Belt: The Six Sigma Yellow Belt reflects your knowledge of all program concepts and areas where you can apply them.
- Green Belt: Green Belt demonstrates your deep knowledge of Six Sigma concepts and applications to solve operational challenges.
- Black Belt: A Six Sigma Black Belt is an expert-level certification that demonstrates your advanced knowledge and ability to apply all Six Sigma features.
- Master Black Belt: The Master Black Belt is the highest level of certification in Six Sigma and means that professionals have completed all the requirements to qualify for the title of Master.
The Benefits of Earning a Six Sigma Black Belt
Earning a black belt certification can have many benefits. Because of the complexity of the Six Sigma philosophy and its applications, each level you achieve can prove your ability to develop new skills and continually apply new concepts. A Black Belt certification is also one step below the highest level of Six Sigma knowledge, which can show employers your motivation to move into leadership positions and improve your performance. Here are a few more benefits of earning a Six Sigma black belt:
Expanding Employment Opportunities: Graduate-educated professionals such as Six Sigma Black Belts can often expand their employment prospects to senior management and senior positions and qualify for higher-level promotions.
- Increases earning potential: Six Sigma Black Belt experts often earn higher salaries than White, Yellow, and Green Belt professionals.
- Supports Leadership Development: Black Belt certification prepares professionals to serve on leading teams in the application of Six Sigma concepts, methods, and tools.
- Deepening Knowledge of Tools and Techniques: Six Sigma Black Belt Certificate Training teaches complex topics based on each previous level of Six Sigma.