Introduction to Measurement Uncertainty
Training Formats
This course is available in two formats: training for individuals and private group training.
Course Overview
This introductory course provides calibration and testing laboratory professionals with a practical foundation in measurement uncertainty evaluation. Moreover, participants are introduced to essential mathematics, basic statistics, and key concepts used to estimate and document measurement uncertainty. In addition, hands-on exercises reinforce learning through the development of basic uncertainty budgets using calculator-based methods. Designed for personnel working in calibration, metrology, testing, and other measurement-related fields, this course supports the consistent application of uncertainty principles. As a result, participants strengthen technical competence and better support laboratory quality system requirements.Price: $595.00
Prerequisites
Required: This is a mathematics-based course. Familiarity with basic MATH functions and understanding the order of math operations (PEMDAS) in spreadsheets is very important.
Suggested:
- While having an algebra and fundamental (basic) statistics background is not required, familiarity is beneficial, especially when defining and manipulating the equation for the measurement method.
- Courses offered by contract only to provide a fundamental understanding of Excel and statistics
Equipment Needed
The participant will need to bring a laptop computer (PC or MAC) with Microsoft Excel or equivalent (can use Google Sheets).
Target Attendees
This workshop is intended for participants who (a) desire to understand what they are looking at when they read a measurement uncertainty budget, or (b) eventually want to create, edit, and improve measurement uncertainty budgets to support accreditation and improve the quality of measurement results.
Directors, Managers, and Supervisors – GOAL: Read a measurement uncertainty budget and understand the result
Metrologists, Engineers, Scientists, Calibration Technicians, and Laboratory Technicians – GOAL: Build a simple uncertainty budget that meets ISO and accreditation requirements
Learning Outcomes
After successfully completing the workshop, participants will be able to, using a provided Excel workbook and instructor- or class-chosen measurement method:
- Define and explain key terms and apply their concepts
- Explain the importance of measurement uncertainty and how it impacts customer confidence and the company’s “bottom line”
- Describe and illustrate the seven(7)-step process for evaluating measurement uncertainty
- Identify the components of an ISO-compliant uncertainty budget and describe their functions
- Identify, compare, contrast, and correctly apply the different probability distributions in a measurement uncertainty budget
- Apply Excel tools, functions, and techniques learned throughout the course
- Identify and utilize supplemental tools for determining Type ‘A’ measurement uncertainty (repeatability and reproducibility)
- Complete a simple measurement uncertainty budget given a measurement scenario and key contributors, and
- Identify sources for improving the measurement process and performing calibration interval analysis
CEUs Awarded
0.7 CEUs Awarded* (7 active training hours, 8 hours total)
* A2LA WorkPlace Training is accredited by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET) and is authorized to issue the IACET CEU.
Presentation Style
Lecture, discussion, and classroom exercises.
Reference
JCGM 100:2008 – “Evaluation of measurement data – Guide to the expression of uncertainty in measurement (GUM)”
NIST Tech Note 1297 – “Guidelines for Evaluating and Expressing the Uncertainty on NIST Measurement Results”
JCGM 200:2012 – “International Vocabulary of Metrology – Basic and general concepts and associated terms (VIM)”
ILAC P14:09/2029 – “ILAC Policy for Measurement Uncertainty in Calibration”
ILAC G17:01/2021 – “ILAC Guidelines for Measurement Uncertainty in Testing”
Engineering Statistics – “NIST/SEMATECH e-Handbook of Statistical Methods”
ISO/IEC 17025:2017 – “Conformity Assessment – General Requirements for the competence of testing and Calibration Laboratories”
Training Dates
March 18 – 19, 2026
Virtual Class
1pm - 5pm EST
May 12, 2026
A2LA WorkPlace Training, 5202 Presidents Court, Suite 240, Frederick, MD 21703
8am - 5pm
June 2 – 3, 2026
Virtual Class
1pm - 5pm EST
September 22, 2026
5755 Central Avenue, Suite 201, Boulder, CO 80301
8am - 5pm
November 3, 2026
A2LA WorkPlace Training, 5202 Presidents Court, Suite 240, Frederick, MD 21703
8am - 5pm
December 10 – 11, 2026
Virtual Class
1pm - 5pm EST