Are you a CEP or in the process of becoming one?

Yes, I am CEP Certified.  I think the overall program is well designed and works well.

Yes, I am a Level 3 CEP.  I also think the program is great and keeps me up to date on what I need to know in my field.

Yes. I just earned by CEP designation November, 2007. I think the program gives you all the tools you need to do well in the equity comp field. You have to know a lot of material in level 2 and 3, so give yourself enough time to read and absorb everything. Don't try to cram. Don't overtab your book, you will never find anything during the test.
Sample test questions was vey helpful.

I'm considering going through the exam/certification process - do those ECE members who have the certification feel that the cost/benefit is favorable?

I would like to revive this discussion.  Are you a CEP or in the process of earning your CEP status?

When did you earn your CEP?

or

When do you expect to earn it?

If you are not in the process, why not?

Thanks Dan for posting this topic.  As you know, the CEP designation is one that is near and dear to my heart.  I originally earned my CEP in 1998 - it was part of the terms of my employment with ShareData.  I am now fortunate enough to be the Director of the CEP program and can attest to the many, many success stories CEPs have shared with me.

The CEP curriculum has been freshly updated for 2009, including more robust resources on repricing and option exchange.  We've also expanded our coverage of IFRS and introduced new reference materials on advanced accounting and restricted stock.  And, for those involved in the program in the past, we've had another big change - "Executive Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights" (aka Kraus) is no longer a required part of the curriculum.  Kraus topics have been integrated into the NCEO books for easier to read and understand text.  

I know that many companies are struggling with budget, but especially now, during these difficult economic times, it is critical to have the right skills and knowledge.  Equity compensation professionals may suddenly find themselves with broader job responsibilities, as the result of downsizing; the CEP curriculum can give them the foundation they need to assume those responsibilities.  Equity departments may find squeezed budgets translates into reduced access to outside advice; in-house expertise achieved through the CEP program can make your department more efficient with use of outside advice.  And, of course, the CEP designation is a critical, differentiating factor in job searches.  The relatively small registration fee is easily and quickly recovered.

When you also consider the angle that scrutiny on executive compensation is only going to intensify, every company should consider obtaining CEP expertise a top priority.  The 2009 course materials are ready for shipping.  Register today to maximize your study time for the June 6 exam (registration deadline is April 24.)

 Of course, I'm happy to answer any specific questions from ECE members

I passed my Level 3 exam in November 2008 and am proud to have the CEP designator on my business cards now.

Apart from having the technical benefits of the CEP education, so well detailed by Emily above, one of the biggest benefits to me during the entire process was the expansion of my professional and personal network.  Just like any other profession where the rules are always changing, having a strong network ensures that even if you don't have the answer on the top of your mind, you will always know how to get that answer because your professional network will provide you with "where to look" answers and practical tips.  Plus, once you're a CEP, you can volunteer to assist with any of the several test and curriculum development groups so you'll always be on top of what's changing in the world of equity administration.

As for the other questions and comments -

     yes, Millard, the cost/benefit is most definitely worth it;

     and Pamela is right about not overtabbing your books.

Another tip I'd add is that I took the Syllabus and re-typed it, and then added in brief answers and textbook page references while I was studying.   That thorough cross-referencing activity while studying was great for cementing the information in my mind and made working with the Syllabus so familiar that finding answers during the test was quicker than flipping through each book index.