Hi, I'm Alan and new here. Sorry if I was rude in not properly introducing myself before posting. First of all, I'd like to thank the founders of and contributors to this site for what you've created.

...though I do feel out of place introducing myself here.

The work I've done doesn't fit with ...

Thanks for your opinions. Sounds like maybe certification would be a waste of time and money then. I was asked about it when interviewing for my current job.

Hi, I'm Alan and new to the forums. I was wondering if anyone here gets certified in the primary programs they use.

I think for a staff illustrator it means you can demand more pay, and it does come up in some interviews. In the case of a freelancer I'd think you put something on your site about it ...