Need info about SOPL training program

[chubrock70]

I'm wondering if anyone has information about the SOPL training program that they offer it covers 12 chapters of the basics. But it is fairly cheap if you become a member of the SOPL they let you take the training course for free. so all in all it cost you 150.00 for the certification. SO anyone w3ith any information please share it with me i am looking into taking a training course i just am exploring my options thanks.

[MacGyver101]

I've never heard of them before -- but it does send off some alarm bells that the only concrete skill they advertise (and in three or four places) is that you'll be able to use KeyCodeSoft to originate car keys after receiving their training. (Oh, did they mention: you get a discount on KeyCodeSoft?) They do promise $750 value in training, along with instructions on how to access KeyCodeSoft. Oh, and here's an advertising link for KeyCodeSoft.

They may be a legitimate training agency... but, if so, they need to work on their website: on first glance, it sure looks like a scam that's being used to promote a particular key code service. (And, yes, I know the software's not actually called KeyCodeSoft: I just didn't want to repeat the ad here.)

[tomcat]

Far from a scam and not sure how you come to that conclusion. It is also an approved program for some state consumer protection licensing boards. Recently 12 basic chapters of the Locksmith Training Program was placed on the main website and not limited to registered users. Although members do receive more resources. Nowhere on the website does it say you will be able to use any program called KeyCodeSoft. there is also No mention of any discount, there is a credit provided to members by the actual organization. Not sure why you are trying to put out misinformation? I hope this accurate information is more helpful.

[Squelchtone]

Far from a scam and not sure how you come to that conclusion. ... Nowhere on the website does it say you will be able to use any program called KeyCodeSoft.

If you read his last line again, he changed the name of the software because he didn't feel like giving it free advertising.

Here's a collage of parts taken from the main page. Perhaps it would be better to put the software logo in Links and not right on the main page, I think that's why people are doubting the legitimacy of this professional locksmith guild.


I haven't made up my mind about the site yet, but it does seem to be a little "link heavy" to that Key ___ Pro software. If that software is your site sponsor or you're a part owner of that software company that's fine, but I think a little more transparency would go a long way. I guess all schools these days need some kind of discount or give away.

I personally don't see it as any different than Foley Belsaw giving away a key cutting machine if you take their class or Lockmasters giving you a set of their lock picks or an S&G lock to keep after you learn their manipulation course. Times are tough, so I think its a good idea people belong to professional groups like BNI or something like this group, doesnt hurt to throw each other some business, as long as it doesnt start sounding scammy. And by scammy I'm talking along the lines of all those fake foreign middle eastern locksmiths we all hate who work out of their trunks and charge grandma $300 dollars to drill and replace her Kwikset after she was told on the phone that it would just be $50 dollars to pick it. I'm sure you guys don't want to ever be seen in a similar light.

just my opinion,
Squelchtone

[globallockytoo]

The SOPL training program is one of the best courses I have had the pleasure to view. I remember reading the original text book produced about 4-5 years ago and I believe they have dumbed it down since then.

It is a course produced by locksmith tradespeople in collaboration. Unlike some other courses that are run by teachers (with no locksmith background), the SOPL prides itself on the knowledge of it's many members and contributors.

These days, it is known that a good mentor is almost a must in this trade. When you lack a motivated mentor, SOPL comes to the crease with options for students to bounce ideas and feedback off seasoned technicians with experience in the field.

In my opinion (and I am not on the payroll - or connected in any way) there are few (if any) better choices for your money.

Above all the training you take, it is important to know that without regular practise, your skills diminish.

When doing the course, I suggest that you try each task at least 7 times successively. Why 7? Because if you can repeat your success 7 times concurrently, it is likely you will have trained your mind and your hands to perform the task repeatedly in future, relatively easily.

[tomcat]

No scammy, scam or whatever. Sorry you feel that way. At this time we do not take on "sponsors", we don't need to do that. If however, there is a strategic partner who wishes to collaborate on benefits for our members or the industry, we will work things out. You may not like the logo shown or the company offering but for those who have benefited and made money as a result of it...they are pleased. I appreciate your feedback and it is acknowledged. We learn everyday and never claimed to be wiz at setting up a website...but it is working. Thanks for the constructive feedback.

[bobhdus]

I've been a member of the SOPL for several months now as opposed to joining ALOA. I feel like it was money well spent. It was because of them I was able to finally get my Locksmith Business going. The members there are very helpful and cover just about everything that is lock or Safe related that you can think of. I have the free courses that came with membership but have not actually completed them as I already have been through several other schools. But you can never learn enough so I will eventually do them. I will say however though, that I have participated in two of their "Webinars" and I thoroughly enjoyed them. The SOPL holds them every month. All that's required is Webcam and a cheap headset/ microphone. The latest one covers Masterkeying and teaches you how to create your own systems. Some of these are free and some are with cost. The classes I sat in on covered wafer locks and I was amazed at how much technical stuff was presented and how much fun I had participating. I highly recommend people look into participating with SOPL. "Limited" membership is free!