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Professional Certifications in Construction in the USA

Abstract

Professional certification is a voluntary process that recognizes the holder as possessing specialized or professional knowledge, competencies, and skills necessary to render professional services that will ensure public protection and safety. Given the wide range of expertise areas in the construction field coupled with the evolution in practice and acute shortage of trained personnel, opportunity abound for unqualified individuals to practice in the field endangering public protection and safety. There is therefore an urgent need for professional certification in the construction field in the USA.

Construction industry in the USA is one of the nation’s largest industries employing nearly 10 million people that represent about 10% of the gross national product.1 Some workers in the construction industry had different initial career choices and hence were not educated or trained in construction. Other workers started out in the trades and worked their way into management positions. Certification as a construction professional recognizes someone as possessing proven skills and the technical knowledge to professionally perform in the chosen expertise area. Organizations such as American Institute of Constructors (AIC)2, Construction Manager Certification Institute (CMCI)3, Construction Specifications Institute (CSI)4, and many others offer certification programs to the construction professionals. This paper will cover issues assorted with professional certification and identify various organizations, their certification programs, and requirements.

Introduction

There are many benefits available to construction professionals that have certification. Being certified brings one the recognition of advanced level of achievement and proficiency in the chosen field of the construction industry. Certification increases advancement opportunities of individuals within their current organization as well as the construction industry. It is a standard by which those within an organization can assess themselves. Economic opportunities as well as opportunity for advancement may be increased as a result of completing any of a number of professional certifications.

Certification benefits not only the certified professional but all parties involved in the construction industry, including society. It provides an internally recognized certification of skills and level of professional knowledge. It also offers employers a way to analyze individual strengths and weaknesses as determined by the certification process. Enhancement of the professionalism to the public, client, and employer by the professional is a direct result of certification. Certification is a marketable credential for a professional to offer an employer, prospective employer or client. Some certification requirements provide a plan to systematically continue professional development in support of career advancement.

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Alungbe, G., & Li, X., & Stepp, J., & Zargari, A. (2008, June), Professional Certification In Construction In Usa Paper presented at 2008 Annual Conference & Exposition, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. 10.18260/1-2--4137