I'm a bit behind on the Tripoli Report. Title is Certification Overload. Bob has been in rocketry for a while; I'm told that his first rockets were built from bear skins, using stone knives. 
With all the various collegiate activities the number of certifications keeps increasing. It puts a strain on the prefect or other certifying individuals, especially at particular venues. Bob has outlined the process neatly and completely. In particular, start early especially if you're a student!
As for prefects, Bob has a single word of advice: delegate. The RSO is (or had better be!) fully capable of reviewing the rocket for safety and proper prep. It should not be necessary for the prefect to follow what the candidate is doing every step of the way. For prefectures that will host a number of student certs, get the word out to the universities and supervising faculty, "Here's what the students need to do."
It's so much easier to certify when you know what you're doing. Great article, Bob!
With all the various collegiate activities the number of certifications keeps increasing. It puts a strain on the prefect or other certifying individuals, especially at particular venues. Bob has outlined the process neatly and completely. In particular, start early especially if you're a student!
As for prefects, Bob has a single word of advice: delegate. The RSO is (or had better be!) fully capable of reviewing the rocket for safety and proper prep. It should not be necessary for the prefect to follow what the candidate is doing every step of the way. For prefectures that will host a number of student certs, get the word out to the universities and supervising faculty, "Here's what the students need to do."
It's so much easier to certify when you know what you're doing. Great article, Bob!
