The other day, a product rep dropped into my office unannounced, to introduce himself. He moved to the area recently and was hoping that I’d trust his advice enough to stop specifying his competitor’s product and start specifying his. My first question to him was, “Do you hold CCPR Certification through CSI?”. His answer was no, and so I politely suggested that he come to a CSI meeting, maybe join the group to meet other designers/specifiers in the area, and pursue his CCPR. Sadly, I don’t think he took my advice. One of the benefits of CSI is the opportunity to pursue Certification in a variety of categories to illustrate to the outside world that you’re a qualified professional.
- The base level certification is the Construction Document Technologist (CDT) which conveys that you have a broad mastery of a variety of project delivery techniques, under-stand the interface between the drawings, specifications and other contract documents and have the requisite skills needed for project management.
The CDT is the entry level certification which is a prerequisite for higher level certifications which can be obtained in specialized areas.
- Owners/Designers can earn the Certified Construction Contract Administrator (CCCA), evidencing a thorough understanding of the contract side of things such as bidding, negotiation, inspections and Division 0-1 requirements
- Product Reps can earn the Certified Construction Product Representative (CCPR), illustrating a deep understanding of how the information on the product they sell interfaces to the Construction Documents.
- Specifiers/Designers can earn the Certified Construction Specifier (CCS), ensuring they have a mastery of the inter-face of all sections of the project manual, well beyond the simple editing of some ARCAT sections on a website
What client wouldn’t gravitate toward a credentialed individual over a non-credentialed one? Chances are, you already know most of what you need to know to pass the exam and gain your credentials. As part of your membership, WCCSI routinely offers we-based tutoring sessions to prepare for the exam, through member Marty Helly who helped countless members successfully complete their certification.
The Spring exam is in March, so give some thought to improving the way your clients and peers perceive you by obtaining your CSI certification.
Steve VanDyke, CSI
Worcester Chapter President
