What Is Pilot Testing?
Pilot testing is a critical step in NOCTI’s credential development process. Every NOCTI assessment—whether newly developed or revised—undergoes pilot testing to ensure it meets the highest standards of validity, reliability, and alignment with industry expectations.

Pilot testing simulates a real test administration in a low-stakes, practice-based environment. It allows NOCTI to gather valuable data and feedback from students, educators, and industry evaluators before a credential is finalized and released for official use.

Why Participate in Pilot Testing?
Pilot testing offers a valuable opportunity to provide input and ensure relevance for real world applications.

Key advantages of pilot testing include:
  • Assess Understanding: Allow students to test their understanding of key concepts and content they have learned.
  • Apply Skills in Context: Provide opportunities for hands-on application of technical skills in a simulated real-world setting.
  • Build Confidence: Help students gain assurance in their knowledge and abilities through low-stakes practice and feedback.
  • Ensure Industry Relevance: Contribute valuable data and feedback to ensure the assessment aligns with real-world expectations
Who Can Participate?
Schools, career centers, and educational institutions are invited to participate in pilot testing. The ideal participants are students who are nearing the end of their program, but students who have completed relevant coursework earlier are also welcome to participate. Participation is completely free—no additional cost, just valuable experience and insight.

How Does It Work?
To get started, each site must designate a Site Coordinator to manage the testing process and act as the primary contact. This individual must be in an administrative role (not an instructor) and will need to complete a NOCTI Testing Agreement. (Existing sites do not need to go through this process again to pilot test.)

Once the account is set up, the Site Coordinator will receive a welcome email with account details and log-in credentials for NOCTI’s secure Client Services Center—your hub for managing the testing program and placing orders.

  • Ordering: Pilot tests can be ordered directly through the Client Services Center (CSC)—no separate application required.
  • Test Administration: Tests are administered just like standard NOCTI assessments, but results are used for research and development purposes. Certificates are not issued for pilot testing.
  • Providing Feedback: Sites are encouraged to share feedback on test content, administration logistics, and scoring clarity. Your input helps to ensure the final assessment is accurate, effective, and user-friendly.
Please note: Sites are responsible for the cost of equipment, materials, and supplies required to administer performance pilot tests. A list of the equipment, materials, and supplies for each performance job is provided on our website.

New Option: Performance Piloting Process
We’re excited to offer a flexible option for piloting performance assessments. While full test administration is our goal, we understand time can be limited. Sites can now choose to pilot individual performance jobs, making it easier to participate while still contributing valuable input.

Get Involved
To begin participating, review the blueprints of available pilot tests, select those for which you have an audience, and place your order in the CSC. We also recommend reviewing our FAQ resource for answers to common questions about pilot testing. Please contact us if you have any questions throughout the process. Your participation helps shape the future of workforce assessment—and we’re excited to partner with you!

Pilot Testing FAQs


What types of assessments are available for pilot testing?
Both written and performance assessments are available for pilot testing. Sites may choose to pilot either or both components. Additionally, sites may now pilot single performance jobs, making it easier to contribute within their schedule.

These assessments span a wide range of career and technical education (CTE) areas and are offered as part of NOCTI’s credential development and revision cycles. The list of available pilot assessments changes seasonally. Schools are encouraged to contact NOCTI or check the website for the most up-to-date list of tests open for piloting.

What is the timeline for pilot testing?
Pilot testing is typically tied to specific seasonal windows and often occurs in the spring, when most pilot testers are close to completing their program. Schools should check the website or contact NOCTI for current timelines and deadlines. Organizations are encouraged to order pilot tests in advance to allow ample time for onboarding, material preparation, and scheduling.

What are the technical requirements for administering a pilot test?
A stable internet connection is required for online testing. For performance assessments, schools must provide the necessary equipment, materials, and supplies as outlined in the Instructor Prep Pack for each test.

What kind of support does NOCTI provide during the pilot?
NOCTI offers robust support, including:
  • Instructor Prep Packs with setup instructions and materials lists
  • Guidance for Site Coordinators and Evaluators
These resources are available on our website or the Client Services Center.

What happens with the data collected?
The feedback and data gathered from pilot testing help ensure that assessment’s validity, reliability, and alignment with industry expectations. Pilot scores are not used for credentialing. Participating sites receive a pilot test group score report for informational purposes.

What are the expectations for feedback?
Feedback is a critical part of the pilot process. Schools are encouraged to provide input on test content clarity, administration logistics, and test taker experience. Feedback is typically collected through an online survey or a form included within a test’s Evaluator Guide.

Will schools be notified when the credential becomes official?
Yes. All sites are notified when assessments are finalized and available for official use.

What if I still have questions?
For more information about the NOCTI Pilot Testing Program, please refer to the Pilot Test Information document or contact the NOCTI team for additional assistance. Every participant plays an important role; involvement in the pilot program helps shape the future of workforce assessment!