Does anyone know what the differences are between CFCE and CCE certification, besides the price? How long do they take to complete? Are the practicals pretty straight forward? I am a police officer, so I do qualify for CFCE, but I'm not sure the price difference is worth it. Thanks in advance
I'm a CFCE, and I coach CFCE students, so that both biases and informs my comments. I haven't done the CCE personally, but I do know people who have both, and have had discussions with them about this issue.
CFCE is substantially more intensive. It takes up to 10 months to complete after you finish the 2 week basic training course. Additionally, you'll be coached through the extensive practical assessment by someone like me who will take the time to ensure that you fully grasp all the relevant issues in each problem.
Even if you don't get your CFCE, join IACIS anyway if you're LE. The listserve is a great resource whether you're a new examiner, or an experienced examiner who needs assistance in something outside your usual area of expertise.
Incidentally, the CCE was based on the IACIS competencies. As I understand it, John Mellon who founded ISFCE is a lifetime IACIS member, and former Director of Training, and used that experience to set up the CCE competencies.
<SNIP>if you're LE</SNIP>
Alas, for some that is the key to the decision as to which cert we seek isn't it?