May 2008 - Culture of Certification
posted by Larry J SmithConstruction Divisions within the U.S Army Corps of Engineers are creating a new culture of CM Certification for its professional construction managers.
In mid-year 2006 I began discussing benefits of Certified Construction Management with our USACE Headquarters. We quickly agreed the CMAA body of knowledge, standards of practice and core competencies would enhance our ability to deliver projects and programs to our military construction customers and civil construction partners.
Within the South Pacific Division Construction Chiefs in Albuquerque, Los Angeles, Sacramento and San Francisco Districts teamed with the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME) and the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) to pursue training and CM Certification.
In 2007 twenty six students completed the Chapter Review Course and in 2008 forty-one students completed the Standards of Practice Course. Both courses were hosted by the Corps of Engineers and jointly sponsored by SAME and CMAA. Courses were open to both Corps of Engineers and Industry employees. The interaction between government and industry employees enhanced learning and fostered open discussions on standards of practice.
This teaming spirit now includes Baltimore, Kansas City and Rock Island Districts. The Corps of Engineers has numerous construction leaders who have obtained CM Certification. We are now serving as mentors to dozens of government construction managers, who have formed cohort groups in preparation for the certification exam in October, 2008.
The CCM designation constitutes a solid knowledge base for enhancing the professionalism of our industry. The strategic alliance between SAME and CMAA and the Corps of Engineers is a foundation model for all agencies and firms looking to foster a culture of CCM certification. Construction professionals and leaders are encouraged to follow this model in their planning for tomorrow’s workforce and workload.