Certified Construction Manager: The Way to Success

To become a certified construction manager (CCM), you need to meet the eligibility requirements set by the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) and complete the CCM certification process. The steps to become a CCM include:

1. Meet eligibility requirements: To be eligible for CCM certification, you must have a minimum of five years of experience in construction management and meet the educational requirements.
2. Prepare for the certification exam: To prepare for the CCM exam, you can take courses, study textbooks, and review study materials provided by the CMAA. You can also take practice exams to familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions on the actual exam.
3. Take the certification exam: The CCM exam is computer-based and consists of multiple-choice questions. You will be tested on your knowledge of construction management best practices, including project management, contracts and procurement, construction finance, and risk management.
4. Maintain your certification: To maintain your CCM certification, you must earn continuing education credits (CECs) and renew your certification every three years.

So, to become a certified construction manager, you need to meet the eligibility requirements, prepare for the certification exam, take the exam, and maintain your certification through continuing education and renewal. The CCM certification process is designed to assess your knowledge and skills in construction management and demonstrate your commitment to professional excellence in the field.

Continuing Education Credits

If we talk about CECs, which means Continuing education credits, these are units of credit earned by construction managers to maintain their professional certifications, including the Certified Construction Manager (CCM) certification offered by the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA).

Construction managers who hold a CCM certification must earn a specified number of CECs within a three-year period to maintain their certification. CECs are earned by participating in continuing education and training programs, attending industry conferences and events, and engaging in other activities that promote professional development and improvement.

The purpose of continuing education and CECs is to ensure that certified construction managers remain up-to-date with the latest industry trends, best practices, and regulations. By participating in ongoing education and training, construction managers can expand their knowledge and skills, stay current with changes in the field, and demonstrate their commitment to professional excellence.

Professional Certifications

There is no single certification that is required to become a construction manager, but obtaining one or more professional certifications can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field. Some of the most recognized certifications for construction managers include:

1. Certified Construction Manager (CCM) - offered by the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA)
2. Project Management Professional (PMP) - offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI)
3. Associate Constructor (AC) - offered by the American Institute of Constructors (AIC)
4. Certified Professional Constructor (CPC) - offered by the American Institute of Constructors (AIC)
5. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt - offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ)

Each certification program has its own eligibility requirements, exam content, and renewal requirements. The certifications you choose to pursue will depend on your professional goals and the specific requirements of your employer or industry. Obtaining a certification can demonstrate your expertise, and commitment to the field, and enhance your career prospects.