14/10/2024
“It’s just a money grab…” A conversation about Lean Six Sigma that got me thinking.
I recently talked with a colleague about Lean Six Sigma and whether certifications are necessary. “It’s a money grab,” he said. “We already have the knowledge, but we just need that piece of paper.”
It got me reflecting: Isn’t this true for so many areas of life?
People without college degrees could argue that they have the skills and experience but are often overlooked because they don’t have the degree. Or think about lawyers who finish graduate school but don’t pass the bar exam — they’ve studied they’ve worked hard, but without that certification, they can’t practice.
So, is it just about the paper? Or is there more to it?
The truth is, certifications like Lean Six Sigma aren’t just about a credential. Yes, the paper matters in a world that values formal recognition. But the process itself often sharpens your skills, gives you a new perspective, and pushes you to stay current with best practices.
That’s the real value. The learning, the structure, the proof that you’ve committed to improving yourself and your craft.
So, yes, maybe it’s partially a “money grab.” But I’d argue that the right certifications can be a game-changer for your career.
Have you ever questioned the value of certifications in your industry? Let me know your thoughts below!
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Author Note: Eric Potvin, author of this article, spent 20 years in the US Army serving in various commands from SOCOM, USASOC, and TRADOC to FORSCOM and JSOC while serving in six deployments to wartime environments. He holds an MBA from the University of Arizona. He’s an entrepreneur and small business owner. He traded his uniform for a suit and tie and now travels the country as a Business Consultant.
I recently talked with a colleague about Lean Six Sigma and whether certifications are necessary. “It’s a money grab,” he said. “We already…
