CCM Applicant Handbook Certified Construction Manager CMCI
Construction Manager Certification Institute Application Handbook
V2.10: 062013 Certified Construction Manager
Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 Mclean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 0 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Welcome prospective candidates for the Certified Construction Manager Certification! The Construction Managers Certification Institute© (CMCI) has offered its CM certification program for more than 15 years and continually certifies more qualified Construction Managers than anyone else in the construction industry. Individuals, companies, and owners recognize the CCM certification as a sign of professionalism. Certification programs assess individuals through peer‐developed standards and competencies and provide a credential that is time limited. Certification exam assessments must be independent of any specific course or curriculum. Continued competency is required and enhanced through ongoing renewal requirements and along with adherence to a code of ethics. CMCI’s Board of Governors is responsible for oversight to the development and administration of the Certified Construction Manager certification (CCM®) program, and to ensure the credential meets high standards of ethical and professional practice for the construction industry that assures the proficiency and competency of Construction Management professionals. The CCM is accredited through ANSI/ISO 17024, which provides many positive benefits for the CCM certification process:  Defensible and reliable examinations  Increased value for the CCM credential  Increased recognition of the CCM credential globally  Increased security and confidentiality for all CCM candidates  Increased professional acceptance and marketability of the CCM credential  Peer development and review with professional test development guidance This handbook describes aspects of the Certified Construction Manager process and assists in preparation for both the application and exam. It contains:  an overview of exam content outline and references  admission policies and guidelines for taking the exam  steps to becoming CCM and the CCM application  definitions and information about policies governing the exam  maintaining the CCM credential  fees and guidance on applying for the CCM This handbook also describes the procedures for all parts of the certification process. Many study resources are provided online at www.cmaanet.org to help familiarize candidates with the contents appearing on the comprehensive, multiple‐choice exam. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 1 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Table of Contents INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................................................... 1 DISCLAIMER .................................................................................................................. 2 CONSTRUCTION / PROGRAM MANAGEMENT DEFINED .......................................................... 3 Steps to Certification ........................................................................................................................... 4 Applying for the Certification .............................................................................................................. 4 Certification Eligibility Requirements .................................................................................................. 5 Responsible‐In‐Charge ......................................................................................................................... 5 Educational Requirements ................................................................................................................... 6 Application Review and Acceptance Process ....................................................................................... 6 Application Procedures ........................................................................................................................ 7 CMCI ID Numbers ................................................................................................................................ 7 Request for Examination ..................................................................................................................... 7 Professional Testing Centers and Locations ........................................................................................ 8 Exam Appointment Scheduling and Rescheduling Process ................................................................. 8 No‐Shows or Late‐for‐Appointment Policies ....................................................................................... 8 Retesting .............................................................................................................................................. 9 Application Expiration/Candidacy Duration ........................................................................................ 9 Expired Application Processing (Re‐application) ................................................................................. 9 Auditing of Applications ..................................................................................................................... 10 Board of Governors Statement of Non‐Discrimination ..................................................................... 10 Confidentiality ................................................................................................................................... 10 Special Accommodations for Exams .................................................................................................. 10 CERTIFICATION FEES ........................................................................................................................... 11 Certification Application, Exam Rescheduling, Exam No‐Show, Exam Retesting, Certificaiton Renewal, Replacement/Duplicate Certification Certificates ............................................................. 11 Examination Withdrawal or Refunding .............................................................................................. 11 Duplicate or Replacement Certificates .............................................................................................. 11 CERTIFICATION USAGE AND RELEASE POLICIES ..................................................................... 12 Opt‐Out Policy ................................................................................................................................... 12 Trademarks and Copyrights ............................................................................................................... 12 Address, Name or Contact Information Changes .............................................................................. 12 V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 1 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Verification of Credentials ................................................................................................................. 13 ABOUT THE EXAMINATION ............................................................................................................... 14 The Exams .......................................................................................................................................... 14 CCM Exam Content Outline Process .................................................................................................. 14 Exam Security .................................................................................................................................... 14 Exam Content Outline ........................................................................................................................ 15 Appeal Policies ................................................................................................................................... 15 For the Day of the Exam .................................................................................................................... 16 Summary of Scoring Process .............................................................................................................. 18 Sample: CMCI CCM Examination Score Report ‐ Pass ....................................................................... 19 Sample: CMCI CCM Examination Score Report‐ Fail .......................................................................... 19 EXAM PREPERATION ................................................................................................................................. 20 Board of Governors Position on CCM Exam Education and Training ................................................ 20 Suggested Study Materials for the CCM Exam .................................................................................. 21 Key publications and primary references: ......................................................................................... 22 On the day of the Exam ..................................................................................................................... 23 Preparation and Testing Tips ............................................................................................................. 24 PROFESSIONAL ETHICS AND DISCIPLINARY POLICIES .................................................................... 25 CCM Code of Ethics and Conduct and Disciplinary Policies ............................................................... 25 Breaching Code of Ethics ................................................................................................................... 26 CCM Code of Ethics ............................................................................................................................ 27 RECERTIFICATION .................................................................................................................................... 29 Renewal Policy ................................................................................................................................... 29 Renewal Retesting ............................................................................................................................. 13 GUIDELINES FOR COMPLETING THE CCM® APPLICATION ......................................................... 32 APPLICATION ............................................................................................................................................. 16 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS .................................................................................................. 6 COMMON MISTAKES ON THE CCM APPLICAITON ....................................................................... 4 V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 2 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager INTRODUCTION The Construction Manager Certification Institute©, Inc. (CMCI) is a not‐for‐profit corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of the Construction Management Association of America, Inc. (CMAA). CMCI’s purpose is to serve the public and the profession of construction management through the establishment and maintenance of criteria and procedures for certification of construction managers. The operating standards, policies, protocols, and guidelines are listed here in the Institute’s Policies and Procedures Manual and in ancillary documents. CMCI certification program is accredited through the International Organization of Standardization (ISO) 17024 certification of personnel as administered in the United States by American National Standards Institute (ANSI). This accreditation achievement verifies compliance with requirements outlined in the internationally accepted standards for assessing personnel certification programs (ANSI/ISO 17024). The Construction Manager Certification Program is the one of the first personnel certification program in the construction industry accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and is also one of the first ten (10) programs to obtain the personnel accreditation in the United States. ANSI is affiliated with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), a non‐governmental worldwide federation of national standards bodies operating in more than 145 countries. The ANSI/ISO/IEC 17024 Personnel Certification Accreditation Program administered by ANSI has been adopted as an American National Standard that gives assurance of the legitimacy of these accredited certification programs to state and federal organizations, owners, and the general public. The mission of CMCI is to recognize through certification individual knowledge and experience that meet established practices of construction management. CMCIʹs vision is to be the recognized authority in certifying managers of the construction process. CMCI is governed by a Board of Governors, composed of professional construction managers who have volunteered to guide and administer all aspects of the CCM certification program. Computer‐based exams are provided at testing centers worldwide. The exam development and delivery are continually under review and improvement, utilizing subject matter experts under the guidance of professional exam development experts. This process enhances the level of credibility and defensibility of the CCM credentialing program. The agreement to abide by the CCM Code of Ethics and Conduct is now part of the initial application and the Ethics, Grievance, Appeal and Discipline (EGAD) committee investigates violations, issues sanctions as warranted, and publishes sanctions on the CMAA website. All eligibility, applications, score reports, special accommodation requests and general inquiries regarding CMCI certification will be handled through the CMCI Office located in McLean, VA., U.S.A. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 1 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager DISCLAIMER Construction Managers certified by the Construction Managers Certification Institute (CMCI) have met the standards for the CCM designation. Prior to granting the CCM designation, the CMCI Board of Governors reviews references and experience furnished by the applicants. Applicants must pass a comprehensive examination. Successful achievement of a passing score on the CCM exam is required for an individual to earn the certification. Each candidate must demonstrate competence in the CMAA Standards of Practice to commensurate with the experience requirements established by the CMCI Board of Governors. In addition, all candidates and CCM certification holders are required to abide by the CCM Code of Ethics and Conduct. CCMs are not employees of Construction Manager Certification Institute (CMCI) or the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA). CMCI and CMAA do not represent or warrant the quantity or quality of services provided to the users of the CCMʹs services, as responsibility for delivery of such services rests solely with the individual certificant. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 2 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager CONSTRUCTION / PROGRAM MANAGEMENT DEFINED CMAA defines Construction Management as a professional service that applies effective management techniques to the planning, design, and construction of a project from inception to completion for the purpose of controlling time, cost and quality. Program Management is the practice of professional construction management applied to a capital improvement program of one or more projects from inception to completion. Comprehensive construction management services are used to integrate the different facets of the construction process ‐ planning, design, procurement, construction and activation ‐ for the purpose of providing standardized technical and management expertise on each project. A professional Construction Manager (CM) manages the entire project with pre‐planning, design, construction, close out and management expertise that can assure the best possible project outcome no matter what type of project delivery method used. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 3 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager STEPS TO CERTIFICATION Applying for the Certification Applicants for the CCM must meet all eligibility requirements prior to submitting their application for review. The Board of Governors has the sole authority to advance an applicant to candidacy. This determination is based solely on the information supplied by the applicant in the application form, including the Qualifications Matrix, Responsible‐in‐Charge Experience, Education or General construction/design experience, and Client References. The Governors’ evaluation will focus on ensuring that the criteria specified for responsible‐in‐charge CM experience is matched by the documented experience submitted by the applicant. Those applications that meet this criterion will be advanced to candidacy.
Applicants may apply to become CCM certified by using the application online at www.cmaanet.org, or applying by mail; scan and/or fax to the CMCI for review and subsequent Board of Governors approval. Once an application has been approved by the Board of Governors, notice of eligibility is sent to Kryterion Testing Centers and an email notification is sent to the candidate from CMCI staff. Applications will not be processed unless all required information is complete on the application, references received and application fee is paid in full. Applicants must provide phone and email contact information to facilitate email in receiving confirmation of receipt of application and any necessary phone contact during or following the application or examination process. There are four steps in the certification process: 1. Eligibility 2. Application 3. Candidacy 4. Examination CMCI expects the application review process, advancement to candidacy, and successful completion of the examination to be completed in a timely manner. Applicants approved for advancement to the exam phase, have up to one year to take and pass the exam. The one year period begins on the formal notification date of application approval. Extensions beyond the one year time period may be granted for reasons beyond the control of the candidate that adversely impact the candidate’s ability to take the exam such as medical, military service, etc. The candidate must make a written request for an extension and attach the appropriate supporting documentation verifying the reason for the extension for CMCI’s review and approval. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 4 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Certification Eligibility Requirements The Board of Governors has the sole authority to advance an applicant to candidacy. This determination is based solely on the information supplied by the applicant in the application form, including the Qualifications Matrix, Responsible‐in‐Charge Experience, Education or General construction/design experience, and Client References. The Governors evaluation will focus on ensuring that the criteria specified for Responsible‐in‐Charge CM experience is matched by the documented experience submitted by the applicant. Those applications that meet this criterion will be advanced to candidacy. Note: CMAA believes that all participants in projects and programs are responsible for fulfilling their obligations in an ethical and professional manner, regardless of delivery system or contract method. CMCI permits personnel working for construction contractors, whether at risk or not, to sit for the CCM exam if their personal experience meets the eligibility requirements and their owner references attest to their ethical conduct.
The first step in the application process is to complete the eligibility form of the application. The applicant must acknowledge that he or she has the requisite experience as being “Responsible‐ in‐Charge” (RIC). The 48 months RIC experience together with all the required experience in the six domain of knowledge and skills in the qualifying matrix and the education requirement will allow the applicant to move forward to the application. Responsible‐In‐Charge The Board of Governors has defined Responsible‐In‐Charge (RIC) as follows: The candidateʹs experience must be realized during project execution as part of a project delivery team. The candidate must have had sufficient accountability to assure direct responsibility for the supervision of the construction management staff, for project decision making, the delivery of construction management services and communication with and coordination of the other project participants, specifically owners, design professionals, consultants, suppliers, vendors and contractors. Tip on Determining RIC: Did the decisions that the candidate was empowered to make directly impact the successful completion of the project and was the candidate directly responsible in charge of Construction Management services and for protecting the interests of the project and the owner?
V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 5 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Educational Requirements The Board of Governors does not require formal education; however it can be used to in place of professional experience to accompany your RIC experience. If you choose to use your undergraduate or graduate degree in place of professional experience, the following are considered Qualifying CM degrees that are acceptable: construction management, construction science, civil engineering, industrial engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, chemical engineering, architectural engineering, and architecture. CMCI accepts degrees from post‐secondary institutions accredited by organizations recognized by the United States Department of Education or CHEA (Council for Higher Education Accreditation), ACCE (American Council for Construction Education), ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology), and NAAB (National Architecture Accrediting Board) are the primary accrediting organizations for engineering, architecture, and construction management degree programs. Application Review and Acceptance Process Along with meeting the eligibility requirements, CCM candidates are required to agree to the terms and conditions as noted in the CCM Application, which includes agreement to the CCM Code of Ethics & Conduct. Once the Institute receives the application and processing fee, CMCI will review the entire packet for completeness. If there is any missing material or information in the application, a detailed status report will be e‐mailed to the applicant. In the meantime, the Institute will request forms be filled out from the applicant’s client references. Once all the items in your file are complete and the CMCI office has received both client reference letter forms, the application is sent to members of the Board of Governors for the detailed review and evaluation. Applications received with all required documentation, meeting all eligibility requirements, approval from the Board of Governors and for which payment has been approved, will be initially processed and CMCI will email an eligibility acceptance letter, providing a unique CMCI ID number and testing instructions, to approved applicants within 60 days of receipt of the completed application package with payment. Applications may not be accepted for a number of reasons. The primary reasons are the following: incomplete application; the reference contents or lack of reference response(s); eligibility criteria not satisfied, or application fee payments outstanding. A letter of explanation will be emailed to the applicant if his/her application is not accepted. Instructions for initiating an appeal or a request for clarification made by the applicant, when desired, will be included with the report specifying reasons for non‐advancement. Please be sure to include all required documentation with your application to avoid denial and/or delay. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 6 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Application Procedures CCM applications may be printed and mailed, scanned and emailed, or faxed along with required documentation and payment as noted on the application. All signatures must be submitted by the applicant and agreed to as provided in the CCM application. Once an application is complete and application payment has been made, CMCI will review and send the application to the Board of Governors for review. For applications that are incomplete or lack documentation and/or payment, CMCI will contact the applicant regarding the missing requirements. Once the application has been reviewed and approved for eligibility by the Board of Governors, the applicant will be notified by CMCI. CMCI will send the Exam Registration Form to the candidate to be filled out for scheduling the examination. Once the candidate submits the Exam Registration Form, CMCI will schedule the candidate for the date(s) selected at the Kryterion Test Center indicated on the form. CMCI will review completed applications in approximately two weeks. The Board of Governors review of the application can take approximately four weeks. CMCI ID Numbers Each applicant will receive a unique CMCI ID number once the application has been accepted. This ID number stays with the applicant throughout the examination process and as a Certified Construction Manager. Applicants should keep this ID number in a safe place. Request for Examination Once advanced to candidacy, an applicant must fill out a “Request to Test” form obtained from the CMCI Certification Office. CMCI offers the CCM exam any time a testing center has availability. You may choose three dates within the calendar year and CMCI will try to accommodate in the order listed on the form. Once the form and fee have been submitted, the applicant will be registered by CMCI for the exam. Once your exam date and location has been scheduled, you may cancel your exam appointment up to 72 hours in advance with no fees by contacting the CMCI office during business hours. If you need to cancel your exam appointment within 72 hours, you will be required to pay a $100 fee to CMCI. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 7 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Professional Testing Centers and Locations CMCI exams are administered through the professional testing company Kryterion, which provides state‐of‐the‐art testing centers and services in the United States and internationally. All CCM exams are computer‐based tests (CBTs). Kryterion testing centers incorporate state‐of‐the‐art security and professionally designed testing environments. Note: The physical addresses of all Kryterion testing centers are available at: http://www.kryteriononline.com/host_locations. Applicants are strongly encouraged to make sure they know the exact location and physically travel to the exam site prior to the exam date to prevent getting lost and arriving late. In addition, it is strongly recommended that extra time be allowed in the event of unforeseen circumstances such as a traffic delay, flat tire and weather conditions. Plan your trip to arrive at least 30 minutes before your appointment. No‐shows or late arrivals (which are considered no‐
shows) will NOT be admitted and will result in an additional fee and a requirement to reschedule as described under No‐Shows or Late‐for‐Appointment. Exam Appointment Scheduling and Rescheduling Process A candidate’s approval information is sent from CMCI to Kryterion at the time the eligibility approval email is sent to the candidate. The candidate will then contact CMCI with three dates that are acceptable for the candidate to take the examination. Candidates who are approved for testing have a one year window from the date they were notified the Board of Governors has approved their application. To change the original exam center appointment, or to postpone or reschedule the testing appointment date or time, the candidate must contact CMCI. Candidates must reschedule or postpone exam appointments no later than 72 hours prior to the testing appointment to avoid additional fees. No‐Shows or Late‐for‐Appointment Policies Candidates who are late or do not arrive for the testing appointment, or who do not cancel or reschedule their testing appointment as described in the Request to Test section, will be required to re‐apply and re‐schedule the testing appointment through CMCI. Candidates must complete and submit a reinstatement application along with the reinstatement fee payments to CMCI, which fee includes the testing center seat fee. Certain extenuating circumstances may be appealed to the Director of Certification at CMCI. Examples include disaster resulting in an officially declared ʺlocal state of emergency,ʺ death of an immediate family member within 14 calendar days prior to the exam date (copy of death certificate or obituary must be provided for consideration of the cancellation and rescheduling fee to be waived), or sudden illness or injury. A doctorʹs verification may be required. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 8 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Retesting Candidates who do not pass the CCM exam may retake the exam two additional times (with a minimum period of 45 days between the exams attempts). Candidates must complete all attempts of the exam within one year from being approved by the Board of Governors to take the exam. After two retest attempts, the individual must wait a period of one year before restarting the application process. This period allows the applicant time to adequately prepare for the additional retest and prevents over‐exposure to the exam. Candidates must meet all eligibility requirements in effect at the time of any subsequent application. Note: Requests without proper retest documentation will not be processed until all required retest documentation is received by CMCI and the 45‐day advance notice window will begin as of the date all retest documentation has been received. The documentation required is a new Exam Registration Form with a $100 fee. Application Expiration/Candidacy Duration Applicants advanced to candidacy are placed in active status and have up to one year to take and pass the exam. The one year time period begins on the formal notification date of advancement. Extensions of active status beyond the one year time period may be granted for reasons beyond the control of the candidate that adversely impact the candidate’s ability to take the exam such as a medical condition, deployment for military service, etc. The candidate must make a written request for an extension and attach appropriate supporting documentation verifying the reason for the extension for CMCI’s review and approval. Expired Application Processing (Re‐application) Candidates who do not take and pass the exam within the required one year time period or did not receive an extension from CMCI will be placed into a “suspended” status. A candidate may remain in suspended status for up to four years following the commencement of suspended status. To change from suspended status to active status, the Qualification Criteria for candidacy must have remained unchanged from the time of submission of the original application. In addition, candidates must:  Pay a processing fee in the amount equal to 25% of the application fee at the time of the request for re‐activation.  Verify that the suspended application meets all current RIC Requirements without modification. A full application fee shall be paid with any modified or new application.  Obtain CMCI approval. Any candidate in “suspended” status who does not re‐activate and pass the exam within five years of the formal notification date of advancement will be required to submit a new application and all required fees. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 9 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Auditing of Applications The Board of Governors audit all applications to verify the applicant’s eligibility to take the exam with a minimum of two references supplied with the application. If a candidate does not supply two references, or does not provide the required documentation within the given time frame, he or she may be declared ineligible. Board of Governors Statement of Non‐Discrimination The CCM certification program does not discriminate among applicants on the basis of age, gender, race, religion, national origin, disability, marital status or sexual orientation. Confidentiality The Board of Governors and CMCI adheres to required best practices utilizing strict guidelines as regards confidentiality of candidates, certificants, score results, and all certification related materials not otherwise deemed public information. All board, committee, panel and task force chairs, and members are required to sign a confidentiality agreement. CMCI staff and testing‐
service staff assigned to the CMCI account are also required to sign a confidentiality agreement. Information about candidates and their exam results is confidential. Studies and reports concerning candidates will contain no information identifiable with any candidate, unless authorized by the candidate. All personal data including applications, payments, scores, and contact information maintained by CMCI or CMCI testing partners are stored in confidential electronic and hard copy files with access limited to authorized and designated staff. Special Accommodations for Exams The Board of Governors complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and is interested in ensuring that no individual is deprived of the opportunity to take the exam solely by reason of a disability as defined under the ADA. There are two forms required: Request for CMCI CCM Exam Special Accommodations, and CMCI CCM Exam, Healthcare Documentation of Disability Related Needs. Applicants requiring special accommodations must complete both forms and submit them with their application information to the CMCI Certification Office no later than 45 days prior to the desired exam date. Requests for special testing accommodations require documentation of a formally diagnosed and qualified disability by a qualified professional who has provided evaluation or treatment for the candidate. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 10 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager CERTIFICATION FEES Certification Application, Rescheduling, No‐Show, Retesting, Renewal, Replacement/Duplicate Certificates The exam fee must be paid by providing credit card information on the application form or attaching a check at the time the application is submitted. 2012 Certification Fees (US$) Effective April 1, 2012 Applicable VAT, GST and taxes are not included CCM CMAA Member CMAA Non‐Member APPLICATION $275.00 $300.00
EXAMINATION $275.00 $275.00
RETEST, REINSTATEMENT (No‐show/late for appt.)
$100.00 $100.00
RECERTIFICATION (every 3 years)
$200.00 $200.00
DUPLICATE/REPLACEMENT CERTIFICATES
$15.00 $15.00
Note: Applying to the CCM program does not confer simultaneous membership in CMAA. The CMCI and the CCM program are operated independently from CMAA. For a list of CMAA membership benefits and for information on how to become a CMAA member, applicants should point their browser to http://cmaanet.org/cmaa‐membership‐categories. Membership to CMAA is not required to apply for the CCM. Examination Withdrawal or Refunding It is the policy of the CMCI Board of Governors that the payment for the application or examination is non‐refundable as noted in part 5 of the application. Duplicate or Replacement Certificates Individual duplicate or replacement certificates can be ordered through the Certification Office for a small fee. Duplicates/replacements may only be ordered by the CCM holder. Any change of address must be requested in writing from the CCM holder (email is satisfactory). If you have not received your certificate, you must notify the certification office within 120 days of earning/renewing your certification(s). If the certification office is not notified within 120 days, the duplicate certificate fee must be paid. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 11 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager CERTIFICATION USAGE AND RELEASE POLICIES Opt‐Out Policy Limited information is provided publicly in the searchable registry of certified CM individuals located at http://www.cmaanet.org/certified‐construction‐managers‐registry. This information is limited to first and last name, state, country and email address. Anyone certified as a CCM who does not wish to have his or her information included in the online directory should contact the CMCI Office by letter or email at certification@cmaanet.org. Unless an opt‐out is requested, the CMCI Office is required to respond to requests to verify certification of an individual to include name, current certification level(s), good standing or any current sanctions that may be in place and expiration date. The CCM registry contents are the property of the Board of Governors. The Board of Governors will not sell or rent contact lists of certificants. As part of the application and ongoing credential renewal process, the Board of Governors policies provide permission for certification staff, agents and contractors to contact certified CCM individuals by U.S. mail, electronic mail, and facsimile or via other media on matters limited to those that the Board of Governors believes may be of significant interest to a CCM. To be removed from the CCM mailing list, contact the CMCI Office by letter or email at certification@cmaanet.org. Trademarks and Copyrights The letter sequence, CCM, has been registered by with the United States Patent and Trademark Office on December 25, 2007. The notification indicates that the mark “as used by authorized persons, certifies that professional construction management services are being rendered by persons who have demonstrated professional knowledge and competency in the field of program and construction management in accordance with the requirements and standards established by the certifier.” The trademark is protected under U.S. and international law and any unauthorized uses of these marks are prohibited. Violators are subject to prosecution under applicable laws. In order to use any of these marks or portions of these materials, individuals or organizations must obtain prior approval in writing from the certification office. Address, Name or Contact Information Changes Candidates and subsequent CCM certified individuals who have a change in their mailing address or contact information must notify the certification office in writing (email, fax or mail) to ensure that all records, score reports and certificates are sent to the correct address and received in a timely manner. Change of address requests should be mailed, emailed or faxed to: Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) certification@cmaanet.org The Board of Governors issues certificates to successful candidates in their legal name. Candidates who legally change their name must notify the certification office in writing. Name change requests should be mailed to the certification office. Please note that a notarized copy of official or certified documentation supporting the request (e.g., a notarized copy of a marriage certificate) must be included with the request. Requests received without official documentation will not be processed. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 12 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Verification of Credentials The Board of Governors provide a searchable online CCM registry located at http://www.cmaanet.org/certified‐
construction‐managers‐registry. In addition, individuals or organizations may request written verification of an individual’s registry status from the CMCI Certification Office. Requests for verification may be made to the Certification Office in writing, by fax, by telephone or by email. It is the responsibility of CMCI to verify certification information regarding those certified through the CCM certification program. Information provided online and in response to individual requests is limited to the following: first and last name, state, country and expiration date. An individual certified as a CCM who does not wish to have his or her information included in the online directory should contact the certification office by letter or email at certification@ccmaanet.org. CMCI is obligated, however, to provide current certification status when contacted. The CCM online registry contents are the property of the Board of Governors. Other CMCI CCM Certification Program Recognition The CMCI CCM certification program is also approved by the United States Veteran’s Administration for reimbursement to veterans under the GI Bill. For further information, please go to http://www.gibill.va.gov/pamphlets/LC_brochure.pdf
V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 13 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager ABOUT THE EXAMINATION The Exams The exam is comprised of multiple choice questions with four response alternatives (A, B, C and D). One of these represents the single best response and credit is granted only for selection of this response. Candidates are currently provided 240 minutes for 200 questions. Only 175 items are scored out of the 200 questions on the exam. The remaining 25 questions are pilot questions for future exam forms. The 25 un‐scored pilot questions are not identified to the candidate and are randomly mixed within the exam. It may take some candidates less than the allotted 240 minutes to complete the examination. The examination assesses general knowledge of design and construction and material in CMAAʹs Standards of Practice. Based on the results of the 2004 and 2010 CM industry survey, the CMCI Board of Governors has modified the quantity of the CM certification exam questions to reflect the Exam Content Outline. The standard method of administration for the CCM exam is a computer‐based test (CBT).There is a brief optional on‐screen computer‐based tutorial just prior to starting the exam and a brief online survey at the end of the exam. The time allotted to complete the tutorial and survey is in addition to the 240 minute exam time. The exam questions are based upon a Job Task Analysis from which the Exam Content Outline is created. Questions are written in a format that evaluates a candidate’s ability to perform the job tasks of a CM as listed in the Exam Content Outline rather than solely on the basis of knowledge recall or memorization of facts. All exam questions are written by individual Certified Construction Managers that CMCI deems subject matter experts, reviewed and validated by both test development experts and other subject matter experts. As with other professional credentialing exams, the exact questions cannot be revealed; however, the Exam Content Outline, primary references, and tips on how to prepare are available in this handbook.
CCM Exam Content Outline Process To create this exam, a group of volunteers participated in a study to identify the major categories (domains) for the certification examination and topics within each domain based on the jobs and tasks a certified individual might perform. These categories and topics have already been organized into an Exam Content Outline (a complete test outline, including the percentage of each content area to the overall test) that is approved by the Board of Governors. Exam Security All exam materials are the property of CMCI. Removal of any material from the exam room by any applicants or unauthorized persons is prohibited. Copyrights for the CCM exam are owned by CMCI. Any attempt to reproduce or disclose all or part of the exam is prohibited by law unless written permission is obtained from the CMCI Board of Governors. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 14 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Exam Content Outline The CCM exam specifications were developed by combining the importance, criticality, and frequency data obtained from the Job Task Analysis. The resulting data were converted to percentages and the percentages were used to determine the number of questions related to each domain and task that should appear on the multiple‐choice CCM examination. The test specifications in the table below list the Domain, Task and the percentage of the test included in each domain. Domain Task
% of Exam A Project Management 15% B Cost Management 15% C Time Management 16% D Contract Administration 19% E Quality Management 11% F Professional Practice 9% G Safety & Risk Management 15% Appeal Policies Appeals of the denial of initial certification can be made for:  Exam o The technical accuracy and grading of the exam questions. o Fairness of the execution of the certification testing procedures or application procedures.  Application Review/Eligibility o Clarification on project experience. o Qualifying degree requirements.  Certification Renewal o Denial of recertification points Requests for an appeal must be made no later than 30 days after the applicant is denied certification. Within 60 days of the receipt of the written appeal, the Ethics, Grievance, Appeals and Disciplinary Committee or Board of Governors will conclude its deliberations. A similar appeals process is in place for eligibility and renewal appeals. Individuals who wish to submit an appeal must have exhausted their remedies with CMCI staff. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 15 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager For the Day of the Exam Candidates should report to the exam center on the day of exam as instructed in their appointment confirmation letter and plan to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the appointment time. Candidates must check in by providing two forms of valid ID, one of which must be a government‐issued photo ID with signature (driver’s license, government‐issued photo ID or passport). THE FIRST AND LAST NAMES ON THE PHOTO ID MUST MATCH EXACTLY THE NAMES SUBMITTED ON THE APPLICATION OR THE CANDIDATE CAN BE DENIED ADMISSION. Candidates can make changes to their names by contacting CMCI (certification@cmaanet.org) prior to scheduling their exam appointment. Note: Anyone who arrives after the assigned testing appointment time will be considered a “no‐show,” will not be admitted and will be required to re‐apply by contacting CMCI and paying a reinstatement fee in order to take the exam For ID purposes at the testing center the candidate must fulfill ONE of these options: 1. Valid Passport Option‐ For the exam application and certification process candidates should use the name as displayed on a valid passport. For ID purposes at the testing center, the candidate must present a valid passport which matches the exam application and eligibility notice. 2. Government Issued ID and one other ID Option‐ The standard Pinyin English translated name must be used for the exam application and certification process. For testing center identification purposes, both a valid government issued National ID for the photo verification and either a valid credit card or military ID that has a matching signature to the name on the National ID for the signature portion of the verification of ID must be provided by the candidate. Testing center staff will verify that the standard Pinyin English translated names on the two presented IDs match the exam application/eligibility documents. Note: Candidates will not be admitted to take the exam if any of the above requirements are not met. Candidates who are not permitted to test due to violation of the above agreement will forfeit their exam fee, and must reapply and pay a reinstatement fee in order to reschedule another exam date. The exam center supervisor will keep the official time and ensure that the proper amount of time is provided for the exam. The candidate will be required to read and agree to the CMCI terms and conditions when logging in to the testing center computer screen prior to taking the exam. Prior to the exam , the test center will provide you with three pieces of scratch paper, and a pencil. Candidates are permitted to bring their own non‐scientific calculator. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 16 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Candidates are not allowed to bring anything else into the testing room. Secure lockers are provided to candidates to store their personal items while taking the exam. The following are NOT PERMITTED in the exam room or center:  slide rules, dictionaries or other reference materials  telephones, signaling devices such as pagers, cell phones  alarms or recording/playback devices of any kind  photographic or image copying devices  electronic devices of any kind  jewelry or watches (time will be displayed on computer screen and wall clocks in each testing center)  caps or hats (except for religious reasons)  No exam materials, notes, documents, or memoranda of any kind are to be taken from the exam room. Questions concerning the content of the exam will not be answered during the exam. Listen carefully to the instructions given by the supervisor and read all directions thoroughly. The supervisor may dismiss a candidate from the exam for any of the following reasons:  If the candidateʹs admission to the exam is unauthorized  If a candidate creates a disturbance or gives or receives help  If a candidate attempts to remove exam materials or notes from the testing room  If a candidate attempts to take the exam for someone else  If a candidate has in his/her possession any item excluded from the exam center as specified above  If a candidate exhibits behavior consistent with memorization or copying of exam items Restroom breaks are permitted but are included as a part of the 240 minutes allotted for the exam time. Any individual who removes or attempts to remove exam materials including memorizing exam questions or observed cheating in any manner while taking the exam will be subject to disciplinary and/or legal action. Sanctions could result in removal of the credential or denial to apply for the CCM credential. Any unauthorized individual found in possession of exam materials will be subject to disciplinary procedures in addition to possible legal action. If the individual is a Certified Construction Manager, sanctions could result in the removal of certification. Candidates in violation of CMCI testing policies are subject to forfeiture of exam fee, disciplinary and/or legal action. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 17 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Summary of Scoring Process The passing score is determined by a statistical formula and may vary among the test iterations. The exam is designed only to distinguish those who have the basic level of knowledge from those who do not. There is no evidence that someone who receives a very high score on the exam will perform significantly better on the job than someone whose score falls exactly at the passing point. Therefore, if one passes the exam, he or she will be informed only that the examination stage has been successfully completed. Applicants who fail the exam will be notified of their score and a diagnostic report showing their performance in each content area. This information is provided to aid in deciding whether to retake the exam and planning study efforts for future exams. All exam results are confidential and will only be released to the examinee. Permission in writing must be obtained by the examinee for CMCI to release exam results to another party. The Board of Governors is concerned with reporting only valid scores. On rare occasions, circumstances may invalidate exam scores. The Board of Governors reserves the right to cancel or withhold exam scores if there is any reason, in the sole judgment of the Board, to question their validity. Doubts may be raised about the validity of candidates’ scores because of suspected misconduct; in such circumstances, candidates shall fully cooperate in any investigation. Some scores may be rendered invalid due to circumstances beyond candidates’ control, such as faulty exam materials or mis‐timing. In this rare event, retesting may be arranged. Following certification best practices, as a final check and balance, actual field results of exam questions are analyzed periodically and occasionally necessitate rescores of the exam. If a rescore occurs and results in a change in status from a fail to pass, the CMCI Certification Office will notify the candidate. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 18 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Sample: CMCI CCM Examination Score Report ‐ Pass Dear (Candidates Name), We are pleased to inform you that you have successfully passed the CCM Exam. Thank you for participating in the CCM Program. Questions and comments may be directed to CMCI staff using the following email address: certification@cmaanet.org Candidate: (Name) Score: (Percentage Correct) Date: (Date of Examination) Sample: CMCI CCM Examination Score Report‐ Fail Dear (Candidates Name), We regret to inform you that you did not pass the CCM Exam. Please contact us with questions or concerns at certification@cmaanet.org. You may also contact us to discuss retake options. To further assist you we have provided you with the exam diagnostic shown below: Diagnostic Indicators Contract Administration: (Percentage correct) Cost Management: (Percentage correct) Project Management: (Percentage correct) Professional Practice: (Percentage correct) Quality Management: (Percentage correct) Safety & Risk Management: (Percentage correct) Time Management: (Percentage correct) Candidate: (Name) Score: (Percentage Correct) Date: (Date of Examination) V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 19 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager EXAM PREPERATION Board of Governors Position on CCM Exam Education and Training The Board of Governors believes that as a credible credentialing organization, it should facilitate appropriate preparation of candidates for the CCM exams. CMCI, under the requirements of the ANSI ISO 17024 standard can recommend appropriate exam preparatory materials and other programs and services as allowed by those accreditation requirements and will continue to work with other stakeholders to encourage educational and training programs in assisting candidates with attaining knowledge, skills and abilities as construction managers. CMCI and its Board of Governors do not accredit or endorse any particular training course or source of education as a guarantee of success on the CCM exams. CMCI and its Board of Governors in keeping with the accreditation requirements of the ANSI ISO 17024 standard do not link any training or education programs or any other educational provider’s educational programs offered to obtain a CCM credential. The Board of Governors provide as public information a CCM Applicant Packet, an exam content outline, a primary reference materials listing, and other materials online at www.cmaanet.org. These are suggested materials in helping individuals to become prepared for the CCM exam. The list and information provided is not intended to be inclusive of all potentially useful resources, nor does inclusion on this list constitute an endorsement by the Board of Governors. The Board of Governors does not endorse any particular reference as being completely accurate and encompassing and it is recommended that applicants utilize multiple resources in the process of preparing for the exam. Experience indicates that candidates who participate in formal training programs emerge better prepared for their professional positions as construction managers and as qualified candidates for the CCM certification exam than those who do not. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 20 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Suggested Study Materials for the CCM Exam Many people want to know about CCM exam preparation. Please keep in mind that CMAA is not your only avenue for test preparation, and that there is no single publication or class that will guarantee that you will pass the exam. However, CMAA’s body of knowledge lends itself well to test preparation. Here are some suggestions on where to begin:  CMAA Professional Construction Management Course (instructor‐led course). Check here for information on the most recent course schedule: http://cmaanet.org/professional‐construction‐management‐course  Information on the online self paced training modules can be found here: http://cmaanet.org/online‐learning‐center  For book spell out, we recommend the CMAA CCM Study Kit (included if you attend the in‐
person Professional Construction Management Course): https://online.cmaanet.org/cmaassa/ecssashop.show_product_detail?p_product_serno=33&p
_mode=detail&p_cust_id=&p_session_serno=&p_trans_ty=&p_order_serno=&p_promo_cd=
&p_price_cd= Note: Refer to CMAA’s most current catalog and website for course descriptions and schedules. All applicants are encouraged to purchase publications to prepare for the CCM exam on their own through CMAA or other resources. For a full list of publications, please refer to the CM Core Competencies (Body of Knowledge) at http://cmaanet.org/cmci/competencies.php. CMAA offers a CM Standards of Practice Study Kit that contains the following publications (also listed below): CMAA Capstone; Standards of Practice; Agency and At‐Risk Contract Documents; Time Management Procedures; Cost Management Procedures; Quality Management Guidelines; Contract Administration Procedures; and, CII Publication IR166‐3 Best Practices Guide. CMAA publications are offered at CMAA member and non‐member rates. For additional information on pricing for CMAA publications, please go to https://cmaanet.org/publications.php or contact info@cmaanet.org or call (703) 356‐2622. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 21 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Key publications and primary references: Study Kit CMAA 2010 Standards of Practice CMAA 2003 Agency Series Contracts CMAA 2004 CM At‐Risk Contracts CMAA Capstone: The History of Construction Management Practice and Procedures CMAA Contract Administration Procedures CMAA Time Management Procedures CMAA Quality Management Guidelines CMAA Cost Management Procedures Construction Industry Institute (CII) Publication IR166‐3 Best Practices Guide Others (not all inclusive) National Construction Law Manual, Acret, James, Esq., BNI Publications, 1996. Project Management, Principles and Practices, Spinner, M. Pete, Prentice‐Hall, Inc., 1997 Architect’s Essential of Cost Management, Dell’Isola, Michael D., Wiley and Sons, 2002. CPL 2‐0.124 – Multi‐Employer Citation Policy, United States Department of Labor, OSHA, OSHA Instruction. Employers Rights and Responsibilities Following an OSHA Inspection, United States Department of Labor, OSHA, Publication 3000, Revised 2003. Job Hazard Analysis, United States Department of Labor, OSHA, Publication 3071, Revised 2002 V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 22 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager On the day of the Exam 
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Plan to arrive at the site of the exam the night before the exam, unless you live in the locale of the exam center (i.e., no more than one hour driving distance), and get a good night’s rest. Candidates should actually go to the physical location of the testing center prior to the exam to ensure exactly where to go and how to get there on the day of the exam and allow extra time for unforeseen events such as traffic and flat tires. This will help reduce unnecessary stress. Eat a well‐balanced meal prior to reporting to the exam center on the day of the exam, but limit the amount of stimulants you ingest (e.g., caffeine). Be at the exam site at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled start time for registration processing. Read and follow all instructions carefully. For best results, pace yourself by periodically checking your progress. This will allow you to make necessary adjustments. Remember, the more questions you answer, the better your chance of achieving a passing score. If you are unsure of a response, eliminate as many options as possible and choose an option from those that remain. You will be allowed to mark questions for review prior to the end of the exam. Be sure to record an answer for each question, even if you are not sure the answer is correct. All questions are of equal weight. Avoid leaving any questions unanswered; marking an answer to all questions will maximize your chances of passing. There is no penalty for guessing and each item counts one point. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 23 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Preparation and Testing Tips Step One: Self‐Assessment The first step to prepare for the exam is a self‐assessment of your readiness:  Can you fulfill all of the duties of a Construction Manager?  Have you met the eligibility requirements? Step Two: Review of Exam Topics Review the exam content outline from two different perspectives:  Which content areas represent the greatest number of test questions? The greater the number of possible questions on the exam, the more focus you need on these topics to prepare for the exam.  How does your current knowledge and skill compare to these content areas? Are you strong in some but weak in others? If you have had extensive training and/or experience in a specific area, you may decide that your focus should be on the areas that are less familiar to you. Your analysis of these two questions will help you decide where you need to spend your study time. Step Three: Define Difficulty Level It is hard to define difficulty levels, as what may be easy for some can be harder for others. Some topics may also seem broad in scope. Here are some tips to help you gauge the scope of the topic:  Revisit the credential description and the eligibility requirements, if any. Is it expected that someone with this level of experience would be able to do this task at this level? Using the full duties/tasks/steps document from the Exam Content Outline, explore each topic by reviewing the skills, knowledge and tools and equipment required to do the work appropriately to help you determine to what level you need to prepare.  Correlate suggested reference works against the topics. What level of difficulty do they represent?  Review sample questions. Step Four: Determine your Learning Style How do you learn? Are you a hands‐on learner? If so, attending a classroom course or working with a mentor with plenty of opportunity to discuss concepts that may be best for you. Online courses are helpful for people who don’t have time or resources to travel to a classroom course, and who enjoy the opportunity to repeat lessons until they feel comfortable. You may prefer a reference book that you can highlight and annotate. You need to determine the best method for you and use the reference materials that help you prepare appropriately. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 24 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager PROFESSIONAL ETHICS AND DISCIPLINARY POLICIES CCM Code of Ethics and Conduct and Disciplinary Policies As a credible credentialing organization, the Board of Governors is committed and obligated to protect and defend the credentials provided by CMCI. Every candidate and construction manager certified through the Board of Governors must adhere to the CCM Code of Ethics and Conduct. When it is believed that a CCM has violated this CCM Code of Ethics and Conduct, the first step is to complete the Professional Discipline Complaint Form. The form may be obtained by calling or writing to the CMCI Office. The Professional Discipline Complaint Form must be completed in its entirety, signed, and submitted with any documentation to: Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 | McLean, VA22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) Please include all suitable documentation in support of this complaint. Upon receipt, the Ethics, Grievance, Appeals, and Disciplinary Committee (EGAD) of the Board of Governors will determine whether an inquiry can be initiated under its authority. Please be advised that this committee will consider matters regarding possible violations of the CCM Code of Ethics and Conduct including falsification of applications. The Ethics, Grievance, Appeals, and Disciplinary Committee shall have the power to, but shall not be obligated to, investigate all allegations of unprofessional and unethical conduct that may be harmful to colleagues, the public, or that otherwise may be contrary to the objectives of the CCM Code of Ethics and Conduct provided that such allegations are made in writing and are signed by the complainant. If, during the course of its investigation, the committee determines that there may be additional violations of the code, the committee may investigate and reach appropriate findings regarding such additional violations within the Certified Construction Manager Rules and Procedures Regarding Ethical and Professional Discipline Complaints. The Ethics, Grievance, Appeals and Disciplinary Committee reports findings to the Board of Governors, publishes sanctions and shall also at least annually review the CCM Code of Ethics and Conduct and the Certified Construction Manager Rules mentioned above to ensure that the integrity, professionalism and competency of those certified through the CCM program are suited to the needs of CMCI and the construction manager profession. Matters involving fraudulent use of the credential and/or trademark or copyright violations will be investigated and aggressively pursued by CMCI and its Board of Governors. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 25 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Breaching Code of Ethics Any individual found to have breached the Code of Ethics is subject to revocation of CCM status. Information on a certified professional supporting a complaint of noncompliance may be submitted from any source. A complaint in writing received by the Certification Program will be referred to the Ethics, Grievance, and Disciplinary Committee for investigation. Following receipt of an official notice of noncompliance from CMCI, the CCM will have a 30‐day period in which corrective action or response to the satisfaction of the Ethics, Grievance, and Disciplinary Committee may be taken. If an appropriate response has not been received or the required corrective action has not been taken, the Committee will formally notify the CCM by letter of revocation of the certification. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 26 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager CCM Code of Ethics The CMAA Board of Directors of CMAA has adopted the following Code of Professional Ethics of the Construction Manager and recommends that it be accepted and supported by the CM industry as a guide to the execution of the individual CM’s professional duties: As a professional engaged in the business of providing construction management services, and as a member of the CM profession, I agree to conduct myself in my business in accordance with the following: Client service: I will serve my clients with honesty, integrity, candor, and objectivity. I will provide my services with competence, using reasonable care, skill, and diligence consistent with the interests of my client and the applicable standard of care. Representation of Qualifications: I will only accept assignments for which I am qualified by my education, training, professional experience and technical competence, and I will assign staff to projects in accordance with their qualifications and commensurate with the services to be provided. Standards of Practice: I will furnish my services in a manner consistent with the established and accepted standards of the profession and with the laws and regulations that govern its practice. Fair Competition: I will build my professional reputation on the basis of my direct experience and service provided, and I will compete fairly and respectfully with my professional colleagues. Conflicts of Interest: I will seek to avoid any and all conflicts of interest and will immediately acknowledge any influences and offer to withdraw from any assignment when any actual conflict exists that may impair my objectivity or integrity in the service of my clients. Fair Compensation: I will negotiate fairly and openly with my clients in establishing a basis for compensation, and I will charge fees and expenses that are reasonable and commensurate with the services to be provided and the responsibilities and risks to be assumed. Release of Information: I will release public statements that are truthful and objective, and I will keep information and records confidential when appropriate and protect the proprietary interests of my clients and professional colleagues. Public Welfare: I will not participate in any racial, sexual, or political discrimination related to any assignment I may undertake. I will avoid any conduct that would be considered unethical or will V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 27 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager interfere or conflict with any laws, statues, or regulations, and I will uphold the safety, health, and welfare of the public in the performance of my professional duties. Professional Development: I will continue to develop my professional knowledge and competency as a practitioner, and I will contribute to the advancement of CM practice as a profession by fostering research and education and through the encouragement of subordinates and fellow practitioners. Integrity of the Profession: I will avoid actions which promote my own self‐interest at the expense of the profession, and I will uphold the standards of the construction management profession with honor and dignity. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 28 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager RECERTIFICATION Renewal Policy To maintain the integrity and value of certification in a fast‐changing industry, CCM designated individuals must renew every three years through continuing education. The CCM holder must submit a Certification Renewal Application to the certification office every three years with the required information and a renewal fee. CCM certification renewal is based on the accumulation of points earned through various activities. A total of 25 points is needed every 3 years along with payment for the renewal fee. Note: Please note that it is critical to notify the certification office of any email and other contact
changes while maintaining certification. This is the only way that the certification office can
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All activities must specifically relate to Construction Management. Recertification points can be earned anytime from the date appearing on the individual’s CCM certificate. No points may carry over from one 3‐year period to the next or among categories. Recertification forms will be sent approximately 30 days prior to being due. Recertification forms are due by the end of the anniversary month. Recertification forms may be submitted once the 3‐year requirement has been met. Recertification forms are retained for 3 years. The registered status is maintained by paying the invoice for your renewal fee. Recertification will be reviewed by the CMCI staff unless there is an outstanding question. If this occurs then the Recertification form will be sent to the Recertification Committee for review and response on the status of the application. Note: All CCMs have free access to Recert Track. Recert Track is an online transcript designed to help CCMs keep track of their Renewal Points and certificates. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 29 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager CMCI has outlined multiple options for CCMs to earn Renewal Points towards their renewal, as seen on the charts
below: Section 1: Categories to Earn Renewal Credit Type Points Membership in industry related organizations. (Ex: CMAA, NSPE, ASCE, AIA, USGBC, AGC, 1 point per year per membership
CII, SAME, etc.) Involvement/Commitment to the Profession. Writing related to the CM profession Presentations at conferences/seminars/ training sessions Continued employment in CM/as CM 1 point per year Continued employment as Responsible‐In‐
Charge (RIC) 1 point per year Professional Engineer and/or Registered Architect *Points granted for only one license regardless of number of states in which the candidate is licensed.* 1 point per year Short article 1 point per article Manual, Monograph, Booklet, Chapter 2 points per item Book 6 points per book Chair of Committee, chapter officer Board Member (National, Chapter, etc.) Professional Organization Work (CMAA, CMCI, ASCE, AIA, NSPE, Committee member AGG, CII, SAME, etc.) CMCI Subject Matter Experts 2 points per event 1 point per year 1 point per year 1 point per year 1 point per year Mentor (CMIT, CCM, or ACE) 1 point per year CCM Actively Teaching CM in Universities 1 point per year Total points necessary to renew from Section 1 & Section 2 combined:
25 Renewal Points (RPs)
 You are required to submit at least 25 Renewal Points (RPs) combined or separately from Section 1
and/or Section 2. You do not need 25 points from each section and there is no minimum or maximum
amount of points required from either section.
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Certified Construction Manager Section 2: Categories to Earn Renewal Points (RPs) Type Attending meetings (local CMAA Chapters, etc.) Professional Development Points 2 points per year Attending non‐CMAA forums, conferences, etc. *Additional points per seminar at conferences* 1 points per conference Attending CMAA National Conference *Additional points per seminar at conferences* 2 points per conference Attending CMAA Owner Forum or Other Special Events Attending CM related courses, seminar or training Attending webinar sessions Attending Industry specific online courses 2 points per event 1 point per day 0.5 point per webinar 1 point per course Learning Units for RA 1 point per class/session Continuing Education Units for PE 1 point per class/session Total points necessary to renew from Section 1 & Section 2 combined:
25 Renewal Points (RPs)
 You are required to submit at least 25 Renewal Points (RPs) combined or separately
from Section 1 and/or Section 2. You do not need 25 points from each section and
there is no minimum or maximum amount of points required from either section. Renewal Testing Option: An individual CCM may elect to renew by paying the CCM exam fee, taking and passing the current CCM exam instead of earning Renewal Points (RPs). Those who fail the exam lose their CCM. To regain the CCM, the individual must retake the exam and pass using the current CCM exam retake policies. Renewal through retesting or through RPs must occur by the scheduled renewal date (end of CCM anniversary date) in order to maintain certification status. Those choosing to retake the exam must fill out the exam form and should consider adequate time for scheduling exam appointment and possible retesting prior to renewal date. Once a certificant chooses to renew by testing, they must complete the renewal by retesting, as may be required by their expiration to avoid loss of the certification and may not switch to earning RPs. Failure to pass current CCM exam and subsequent retesting per policy will result in the individual being de‐certified. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 Mclean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 31 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Guidelines for Completing the CCM® Application Please do NOT staple or place your application in a folder or binder. Please use this guide as you complete the application form. If you have any questions or concerns as you prepare the document, please call the Certification Office at 703‐356‐2622. The application process consists of three parts. Please complete them in the order presented. The first determines your eligibility. Once that is established, complete the Qualifying Matrix. If you have the requisite experience, you may then complete the application. Check your work for thoroughness and be sure to place the completed Application Checklist (page 7) on top of your application. 1. Part 1: Applicant Eligibility Form (Page 2 of the application) Match with final page number. Please complete this item first. 2. Part 2: Qualifications Matrix (Page 3 of the application) Match with final page number. Read the instructions carefully: you must be able to check the boxed areas to show that you have the minimum qualifying experience. If you do NOT have this experience, do not move to the application at this time. 3. Part 3: The Application (Pages 4‐9 of the application) Match with final page number. 3.1 Contact Information Please provide your primary mailing address and phone number. Indicate how you would like us to contact you. 3.2 Current Employer Please list your current employer. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 32 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager 3.3 Education The Board of Governors does not require formal education; however it can be used to in place of professional experience to accompany your RIC experience. If you choose to use your undergraduate or graduate degree in place of professional experience, the following are considered Qualifying CM degrees that are acceptable: construction management, construction science, civil engineering, industrial engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, chemical engineering, architectural engineering, and architecture. CMCI accepts degrees from post‐secondary institutions accredited by organizations recognized by the United States Department of Education or CHEA (Council for Higher Education Accreditation). ACCE (American Council for Construction Education), ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology), and NAAB (National Architecture Accrediting Board) are the primary accrediting organizations for engineering, architecture, and construction management degree programs. To see if your degree is from an accredited institution, please go to this page on the CMCI website: http://cmaanet.org/cmci/degree_requirements.php
The Institute’s Governors have passed a policy on the evaluation and submission of international educational credentials. Please see the Applicant’s Resources page of the CCM website: http://cmaanet.org/applicantresources. International applicants must follow these procedures in completing the application. 3.4 Memberships, Professional Certification and Licenses Please list all memberships, professional certifications, and licenses that are related to the construction management profession. 3.5 Resume Submit a current professional resume listing all the organizations you have worked for, positions held, and the time frame with each organization. The resume should document your specific responsibilities on each project, not simply provide a description of the project. 3.6 Project Experience Documentation This is the most critical part of the application along with your reference letters. In this section you discuss your 48‐month Responsible‐in‐Charge project experience, and it is in your best interest to be as detailed as possible and outline what you specifically accomplished for each project. Your experience should be reasonably represented in all the bracketed areas of the Qualifications Matrix (pg. 3 of the application). The Board of Governors needs sufficient information to verify and evaluate your experience. If this cannot be determined, your application may be denied advancement. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 Mclean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 33 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager There is a required format for detailing your project experience. You may vary the spacing as needed, but must follow the format. There are no exceptions to this format. It is essential that the project documentation explain and demonstrate that the experience meets the conditions of being Responsible‐In‐Charge (RIC), namely: Tip on determining RIC: Did the decisions that the applicant was empowered to make directly impact the successful completion of the project and was the applicant directly responsible in charge of construction management services and for protecting the interests of the project/owner? 3.6.1 In the case of the pre‐construction phases related to design and procurement, the applicant is expected to demonstrate experience that he or she has directly contributed to those phases from a position as a CM and does not require being in direct control of design and procurement in these phases. The applicant is expected to be in control of managing the process and not the actual design and/or procurement work. 3.6.2 In the case of the construction and post‐construction phases, the applicant must demonstrate that he or she functioned in a leadership role and was in charge of a project with responsibilities to enhance the control of time, cost and quality on the projects upon which they base their experience. The applicant must have protected the interests of the project/owner through their actions in providing the CM services. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 34 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager 3.6.3 The 48‐month RIC experience period requires actual (daily) responsible‐
in‐charge experience and involvement with the listed project. (In general, corporate principal oversight roles do not satisfy this requirement, but active involvement as a Project Executive may meet these requirements.) Specific explanations on various components are provided below. a. Project Information Generally it is expected that projects will involve multiple trade types and will be of reasonable complexity. In the size/scope section, please explain the portion of the project that you functioned as “RIC” in detail. The reviewers will use their judgment, based on information provided, to determine that the project is of sufficient complexity to qualify for “RIC” experience. b. Employee CMAA believes that all participants in projects and programs are responsible for fulfilling their obligations in an ethical and professional manner, regardless of delivery system or contract method. CMCI permits personnel working for construction contractors, whether at risk or not, to sit for the CCM exam if their personal experience meets the eligibility requirements and their owner references attest to their ethical conduct. If an applicant for the CCM can show professional character and RIC construction management experience that reflect this commitment, verified by references, the applicant can be considered for candidacy. CMCI is looking for applicants who are in a position to protect the interests of the project and owner. Many public and private entities provide construction management services using in‐house resources, with or without a 3rd‐party (consultant) construction manager. Such experience will be acceptable as “RIC’ experience as long as all other criteria are met. If your employer’s role was different from those outlined above, but you believe that it conforms with the role of a construction manager protecting the best interest of the project and owner, please list the role of the employer and include a brief statement outlining how the role was consistent with that of a construction manager for the specific project. Please list your title or position on the project and provide the timeframe that you functioned as the ‘RIC’. If you functioned in different roles during the life of the project, it is important that only the timeframe that you were ‘RIC’ for the project is listed.
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Certified Construction Manager c. Client Reference Letters Please provide all known client/owner information for all projects. We recognize that specific information may not be available on projects that occurred many years ago. However, you must provide specific project information for at least two clients that you will be designating as your references. Please refer to the information below for additional information related to client/owner reference letter. A minimum of two (2) separate client reference contacts is required; they can be from any two (2) projects that you are documenting as part of your 48‐month requirement. Note: if one project covers the 48 months, you will still need a minimum of two (2) reference contacts. Current contact information should be included for the Client/Owner on all projects listed for the 48‐month period. The references should be able to attest to the statement below: “I certify that this candidate has functioned in a CM role with responsibility to enhance the control of time, cost and quality on this project and/or projects (or program) upon which I am basing this certification. Also, his/her involvement has contributed to the success of these assignments and during the course of this candidate’s service the project’s interests have been acceptably protected.” Example narratives for documenting RIC experience are available on the CMAA website under CCM Resources. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 Mclean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 36 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager The Client/Owner or his representative is the person who paid for the project and to whom you were accountable on the project. If a Client/Owner contact is not available, please enclose an explanation along with one of the following contacts; if only one project is submitted the other reference contact may come from the following: 1. Company Executive: the person in your place of employment to whom you reported during the project. 2. Another person at the top level of project oversight that can verify your experience. 3.7 The applicant should provide current contact information, including telephone number and work email address for each Client/Owner reference included within the 48‐month RIC period. The applicant must state that he/she has verified that the references have been contacted and are willing to respond within 30‐45 days. Upon receipt of a completed application, CMCI will transmit blank reference letters to the listed references, and they will be asked to return the completed reference letters directly to CMCI. It is the applicant’s responsibility to follow up with their references to assure that they have completed and returned the required forms to CMCI. We recommend that more than one reference contact be given for each project in the event that a Client/Owner cannot be reached. Management Roles and Responsibilities FOR EACH PROJECT THAT YOU SUBMIT FOR YOUR 48 MONTH RIC REQUIREMENT, YOU MUST FILL OUT SECTION 3.6 – 3.10. When listing your responsibilities, please be as specific for the particular project and as detailed as possible. Please discriminate between those services performed by you personally and those for which you supervised. Clarify for the reviewer those services for which you were active and those in which you were passively involved. For example, as the RIC CM you may have been accountable for maintaining the master schedule, but you did not yourself create or maintain it, but you did have significant input. Responsibilities that are listed identically for multiple projects, while feasible, tend to raise concerns related to the specificity of the information related to each project. 3.8 Challenges As the Responsible in Charge CM/PM, please describe the biggest CM challenge on this project and how did you address it? Limit your response to two typed pages and attach to this application. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 Mclean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 37 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager 3.9 Project Organization Chart Attach (an) organizational chart(s) for the project(s) you list for your RIC experience. Please place the name and title of your reference in section 3.6D within your organizational chart, along with your name/title. An example organization chart is available on the CMAA website under CCM Resources. 3.10 Additional Reference If an additional reference is necessary, please place his/her contact info in this section. A sample of the reference form is available on the CMAA website under CCM Resources. 4. 5. 3.11 General Design/Construction Experience This section needs to be completed only by those who must show an additional four (4) or eight (8) years of general construction/design experience to qualify. If you are qualifying with a CM‐related degree, you do not need to complete this section. Reference letters are not required for this section of the application. Part 4: Applicant Conditions Please read carefully and sign. CMCI must receive the original signed copy for its files. Part 5: Application Fee Please indicate your preferred payment method (check or credit card). The application fee is non‐refundable. All payments should sent to the address below: Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, Suite 800 McLean, VA 22102 6. Request for Additional Supporting Materials The Board of Governors and the CMCI staff may request additional verification, information, or any other item they believe necessary to evaluate the credentials of the applicant. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 Mclean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 38 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Application Checklist Please attach this item to the front of your application packet. Name: ________________________________________________________________ Phone Number: ( )___________________________________________________ .
________________________@_____________________________ ________ Email: Application (Including documentation for each project as part of 48‐month requirement). Photocopy of Degree (only if using CM‐related degree to qualify) Professional Resume Current Contact Information for Client/Owners correlating with your Responsible‐In‐Charge documentation Organizational Chart(s) for your qualifying projects Payment sent in with application to: Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 1 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Part 1: Applicant Eligibility Form Please do NOT staple or place your application in a folder or binder. Name: ________________________________________________________________ ELIGIBILITY: To be eligible for the program you must be able to answer “yes” to numbers 1 and 2, and be able to check one of the options in number 3. If you cannot, do not submit an application at this time. 1. I have 48‐months Responsible‐in‐Charge experience as a Construction Manager as noted in the following question: “Did the decisions that the applicant was empowered to make directly impact the successful completion of the project and was the applicant directly responsible in charge of construction management services and for protecting the interests of the project/owner?” Yes No Note: When completing the table below, please note that overlapping timeframes may only be counted once. (i.e. do not double‐count the months which might occur when portions of two or more projects were completed during the same period). Please only include projects in which you are supplying documentation to complete the 48 months of Responsible in Charge experience. Project From To Total Duration (months) Total Number of Non‐Overlapping Months _______ 2. I have the minimum qualifying experience as defined by the matrix. Yes No My experience/education eligibility is my 48‐month experience as a Construction Manager and (check one): A. BA/BS/MA/MS Level AEC or CM qualifying degree through an accredited college or university. B. AA/AS qualifying degree through an accredited college or university AND 4 additional years of general design/construction experience. (Total of 8 years) C. No CM degree AND 8 additional years of general design/construction experience. (Total of 12 years) V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 Mclean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 2 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Part 2: Qualifying Matrix Name: ________________________________________________________________ PHASE: Pre‐design Design Procurement Construction Post‐construction
FUNCTION/ ROLE Project Management ____ ____ ____ ____ Cost Management ____ Time Management ____ ____ Quality Management ____ ____ Contract Administration ____ ____ Safety Management ____ ____ ____ ____ This matrix represents the functions/roles of a Construction Manager during project phases as defined by CMAA in its publication CM Standards of Practice. The boxed areas represent the MINIMUM qualifying experience for the 48‐month CM experience. This is cumulative experience; you do not need 48 months in each area. In order to enroll in the program, you MUST have experience in the boxed areas. If you do not have the requisite experience, please do not submit an application at this time. There are 30 possible experience areas; for each function/role and phase, ask yourself the following question: “In your position as (title) on (name) project, did the decisions you make directly impact the successful completion of the project and were you directly responsible and in charge of construction management services and for protecting the interests of the project/owner?” If you can answer “yes “to both parts of the question, then place an “X” in the box; if you answer “no” then do not place an “X”. To qualify for the program, you MUST be able to answer “yes” to all of the required areas as marked by the boxes. If you cannot answer “yes” to the required areas, then do not submit an application at this time. You will be asked to verify this experience in the project attachments in the application. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 3 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Part 3: Application
Please do NOT staple or place your application in a folder or binder. 3.1
Contact Information
Title: Mr. Mrs. Ms. Dr. Other ____________________________ (please check one) Name____________________________________________________________________________________ Preferred name for record‐keeping, correspondence, and certificate Home Address : ___________________________________________________________________________ City________________________________________________State_________________________________ Country_________________________________________ Postal Code/Zip__________________________ Contact Telephone ( ) ________________________‐____________________________________ CMAA Member Yes No 3.2
Current Employer Company ________________________________________________________________________________ Address__________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________ City_______________________________________________State__________________________________ Country _____________________________________ Postal Code/Zip______________________________ Telephone ( ) _____________________‐____________________________________________ Email________________________________@___________________________________._______________ Position/Title_________________________________________________ Date Started____/____/________ V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 4 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager 3.3. Education Please list your education beginning with the most recent. NOTE: If you are qualifying with a 2 or 4‐
year CM‐related degree, check the box on the left for the degree through which you intend to fulfill the education requirement. DO NOT check these boxes if it is not a CM‐related accredited degree. Qualifying CM degrees are limited to construction management, engineering, architecture, and construction science accredited through ABET/ACCE/NAAB. Attach certified transcripts or a copy of your degree to this application. 3.3.1 Degree/Year Major College/University Location (City, State) Accreditation: ACCE ABET NAAB _____ ____ __________ _______________________ ______________________________ _____ ____ __________ _______________________ ______________________________ _____ ____ __________ _______________________ ______________________________ 3.3.2 Other Relevant Education Year Subject Institution Location ____ ______________________ __________________________ ___________________________ ____ ______________________ __________________________ __________________________ ____ ______________________ __________________________ __________________________ Memberships, Certifications, and Licenses Please list all relevant professional affiliations, certifications, and licenses with dates. __________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________ 3.5 Resume Please attach a professional resume. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 5 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager 3.6. Project Experience Documentation FOR EACH PROJECT THAT YOU SUBMIT FOR YOUR 48 MONTH RIC REQUIREMENT, YOU MUST FILL OUT SECTION 3.6 – 3.10. a. Project Information Project Name: ____________________________________________________________________________ Project Location: ________________________________State/Country______________________________ Project Type______________________________________________________________________________ Size/Scope (Explain in detail the portion of the project for which you acted as Responsible‐in Charge) __________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________ Budgeted Costs____________________________________________________________________________ b. Employer Information Your employer____________________________________________________________________________ Your supervisor during this project__________________________________________________________ Employer’s Address _______________________________________________________________________ City_____________________________________State/Country____________________________________ Employer’s role on the project_______________________________________________________________ c. Your Information Your position/role on the project: ___________________________________________________________ Time on project as RIC: month/year _________________________To month/year___________________ Total # months as RIC: _____________________________________________________________________ V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 6 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager d. Client Information Client Organization Name: _________________________________________________________________ Client Contact Name: ______________________________________________________________________ Client’s Address___________________________________________________________________________ City________________________________________________State/Country_________________________ Phone Number: ( ) _______________________‐_________________________________________ Email:_________________________________@_______________________________________.__________ Will this client be one of your two references? Yes No (please check one) If only one project is submitted in your responsible in charge documentation, a second reference must be given to cover your 48 months of responsible in charge experience. If you are submitting documentation for more than one project, you only need to complete one reference contact for each project to fulfill the reference requirement. Additional Reference (if needed) Name: ________________________________________________________
Current Organization: ________________________________________________________________ Position: ____________________________________________________________________________ Organization Address: ________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ Phone Number: ( ) _______________________ ‐___________________________________ Work Email: __________________________@___________________________________.__________ Organization at time of project_________________________________________________________ Position_____________________________________________________________________________ V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 Mclean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 7 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager 3.7.0 Management Roles and Responsibilities For each management role listed below, describe your specific responsibilities during each phase. Please be explicit in describing your management “role”. Simply stating one word responses, i.e. performed, managed, supervised, reviewed, negotiated, etc. will NOT be acceptable by the Board of Governors. 3.7.1 PROJECT MANAGEMENT a. Pre‐Design b. Design c. Procurement d. Construction e.
3.7.2 3.7.3 3.7.4 3.7.5 Post-Construction
COST MANAGEMENT a. Pre‐Design b. Design c. Procurement d. Construction e. Post‐Construction TIME MANAGEMENT a. Pre‐Design b. Design c. Procurement d. Construction e. Post‐Construction QUALITY MANAGEMENT a. Pre‐Design b. Design c. Procurement d. Construction e. Post‐Construction CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION a. Pre‐Design b. Design c. Procurement d. Construction e. Post‐Construction V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 Mclean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 8 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager 3.7.6 3.8. SAFETY MANAGEMENT/ RISK MANAGEMENT a. Pre‐Design b. Design c. Procurement d. Construction e. Post‐Construction Challenges As the Responsible in Charge CM/PM, please describe the biggest CM challenge on this project and how did you address it? Limit your response to two typed pages and attach to this application. 3.9.
Project Organizational Chart Please draw a detailed organizational chart clearly identifying your position/title, and reporting relationships with the owner/client, design professionals and contractors, especially those reporting to you. Please be sure to include all names including the client/owner in the chart. 3.10. Project Client/Owner Contact Information V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 Mclean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 9 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager 3.11 General Design/Construction Experience Complete this section only if you need the additional 4 or 8 years of experience to qualify. Reference letters are not required for this section. a. Dates (month/year) from: ___________To____________ Total # months_________________ Employer: _________________________________________________________________________ Address/City/State: _________________________________________________________________ Supervisor Name: __________________________________________________________________ Job title and description: ____________________________________________________________ Project Name: ______________________________________________________________________ Role on Project_____________________________________________________________________ Description (include type, size and budget) __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ b. Dates (month/year) from: ___________To____________ Total # months_________________ Employer: _________________________________________________________________________ Address/City/State: _________________________________________________________________ Supervisor Name: __________________________________________________________________ Job title and description: ____________________________________________________________ Project Name: ______________________________________________________________________ Role on Project_____________________________________________________________________ Description (include type, size and budget) __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 Mclean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 10 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager Please do not staple or place your application in a binder or folder. Part 4: Applicant Conditions 4. 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 4.8 4.9 4.10 The following conditions must be read and acknowledged by all applicants. I agree to abide by the policies and procedures of this program. I understand that all fees (application and exam) are non‐refundable. I understand that when the CMCI Board of Governors approves my application, I have one (1) year from that date to complete all requirements for certification, including passage of the exam. I have not been found by a court, federal or state agency or registration board to have violated the law in the conduct of my AEC or CM‐related practice or to have engaged in conduct involving the wanton disregard of the rights of others. In consideration of CMCI’s receipt, review and processing of my application, I waive any and all claims against CMCI, CMAA, its respective boards, officers, employees and members (jointly and severally) I have or may have, now or in the future, for denying or revoking certification. I affirm that the information contained in this enrollment application is correct and accurate. I affirm that once this application is submitted, I will not contact, directly or indirectly, any CMCI Board of Governors’ member regarding my application until I have obtained the CCM designation. I understand that in order for the Board to review the application fairly and impartially; contacting them about my application could sway their view of my application review either towards advancement to candidacy, or indirectly towards non‐
advancement to candidacy. I have previously contacted all references and they have agreed to respond within 30 business days upon hearing from CMCI. The CMCI Board of Governors reserves the right to cancel or withhold exam scores if there is any reason, in the sole judgment of the Board, to question their validity. In making this application, I fully understand that it is an application only and does not guarantee certification. I attest that I will adhere to CMAA’s Professional Code of Ethics and understand that any false statement or misrepresentation that I may make in the course of the application process may result in the revocation of this application and/or certification. After I have obtained the CCM designation 4.10 I attest that I will adhere to CMAA’s Standards of Practice and Professional Code of Ethics and will fully cooperate in any proceeding involving an alleged violation of the Standards or Professional Code. I also understand that any false statement or misrepresentation that I may make while using this designation may result in the revocation of my CM Certification; 4.11 I will comply with the provisions of the certification and recertification programs; 4.12 I will make claims regarding certification only with respect to the scope for which certification has been granted; V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 Mclean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 11 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI
Certified Construction Manager 4.13 I will not use the certification in such a manner as to bring the certification body into disrepute, and not to make any statement regarding the certification which the certification body may consider misleading or unauthorized; 4.14 I will discontinue the use of all claims to certification that contains any reference to the certification body or certification upon suspension or withdrawal of certification, and to return any certificates issued by the certification body, and; 4.15 I will not use the certificate in a misleading manner. Initial: _________ General Terms and Conditions 4.16 I agree that CMAA is the sole owner of the CCM certification designation, and my use of the designation is pursuant to a revocable, non‐transferable license from CMAA. I will not take any actions which are inconsistent with CMAA’s ownership rights, including challenging those rights. 4.17 I agree that CMCI may make changes to the CCM certification program in its sole discretion, including with respect to eligibility, criteria, recertification, fees, and continuance or discontinuance of the program. 4.18 I hereby release from liability, and forever waive any claims I may have against, CMAA and CMCI, and their respective governing board members and employees, based on or arising out of the CCM certification program, including but not limited to denial or revocation of certification, including claims for defamation, restraint of trade, breach of contract, and interference with business or contractual relations, unless due to the bad faith and malicious conduct of the person sought to be held liable. I further agree that, notwithstanding the foregoing should a claim be permitted to be brought against CMAA, CMCI, or any of their respective governing board members or employees, the limit of their liability and extent of my recovery shall be any registration or application fees paid by me to CMAA or CMCI related to certification. 4.19 I agree that this Application shall be interpreted and governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia, without regard to conflicts principles, and exclusive jurisdiction for any legal proceeding resides in federal or State court in Northern Virginia, and the parties agree and expressly consent to the exercise of personal jurisdiction in the Commonwealth of Virginia. 4.20 I agree that no association, agency, apparent agency, employer/employee relationship, partnership, or joint venture is created by virtue of issuance of the CCM designation to me by CMCI or CMAA. Optional 4.21 If and when certified, I authorize CMCI and CMAA to list my name in the CCM registry and to identify me as a CCM. Yes No Please initial the previous page in the lower right hand corner. Sign and date this page. Signature________________________________________________________Date___________________ Print Name_____________________________________________________________________________ Do you have a disability or other condition which may impair your ability to take the CCM exam please notify the CMCI office for a special testing accommodations form? YES NO Are you interested in receiving information from CMAA regarding education and professional development offerings? YES NO Please note that the original, signed copy of these two pages must be received by the CMCI office for this application to be effective.
V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 12 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI Certified Construction Manager Construction Management Association of America, Inc. 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 | McLean, VA22102 703.356.2622 (p) | 703.356.6388 (f) Part 5: Application Fee The application fee is $275 for CMAA Members, $300 for Non‐CMAA Members and payment of this non‐refundable fee is required for processing this application. Payments need to be sent to the following address with the application: Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, Suite 800 McLean, VA 22102 Please Print Applicant’s Name: __________________________________________________________ If paying by check (made payable to CMCI, or Construction Manager Certification Institute) If paying by Credit Card: Please charge my American Express MasterCard Visa Card Number_________________________________________Expires_____________CVC_________ Billing Address________________________________________________________________________ Billing City, State, Zip Code_____________________________________________________________ Name on Card_________________________________________________________________________ Authorized Signature___________________________________________________________________ V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 13 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI Certified Construction Manager Frequently Asked Questions CCM Application Dear CCM Applicant: The following frequently asked questions provide guidance to individuals completing the 2009 CCM application as the first step towards professional certification as a Construction Manager. The information and examples noted here are not meant to be answers to the various questions or prompts on the application: they are illustrative of what could be included. Reviewers from the Board of Governors want the individuality and highest level of competence to be detailed in the applicant’s responses. Cutting and pasting sections from this document would not be in the best interest of any serious applicant for certification. A recommended sequence for completing the application might include 1. Reading Rick Rye’s commentary on “Common Mistakes on the CCM Application.” 2. Reading the Guidelines that precede the Application. 3. Consulting these FAQs. 4. Contacting the Institute’s staff for advice on any issue on the application or the requirements. 5. Completing the application with the ancillaries handy. 6. Proofing the final copy before submission. Please remember to be thorough, neat, and detail‐oriented. Use the checklist and place it on the top of your submission. As always, if you have any question concerning the application or the application process, please do not hesitate to contact the Institute Office at 703.356.2622 or certification@cmaanet.org. Please note that the numbering for each question corresponds to the numbered items on the CCM application. Additional numbers with the same first digit relate to the same application item: for example, question 1.2 and 1.3 are related to the information in question 1. The Construction Manager Certification Institute (CMCI) and the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) do not discriminate on any basis and abide by all applicable statutes. CMCI permits personnel working for construction contractors, whether at risk or not, to sit for the CCM exam if their personal experience meets the eligibility requirements and their owner references attest to their ethical conduct. Application to the Certified Construction Manager program is open to all qualified persons. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 1 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI Certified Construction Manager Q. Why is the application so formidable? A. Certification sets one apart from others in a profession. It indicates a level of performance based on standards of practice that exemplify the best practices in an industry. The Certified Construction Manager (CCM©) Program stands out from all other construction certificates and certifications. Accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), our certification is based on the CMAA Standards of Practice (SOP). While some may argue that they have extensive experience in Construction Management, they may not necessarily know, understand, or apply CMAA’s SOP. This is what the Institute certifies: It is a particular set of professional standards in the area of Construction Management based on best practices, formulated by the Association, translated into assessment instruments by the Institute, and applied to qualified applicants. The CCM program was the first in the construction professional to be accredited by ANSI, the United States body affiliated with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). It was also one of the first ten personnel certification programs accredited by ANSI under ISO standard 17024. The process to gain this premiere accreditation was thorough and rigorous. Those who hold our certification have met that same rigor and thoroughness in the certification process. The application gives the reviewers from the Board of Governors the information they need to evaluate an applicant’s qualifications and experience. The reviewers look for the highest level of competence in individuals who know, understand, and apply the Association’s Standards of Practice. The application is not a pro forma step to candidacy. Advancement to candidacy indicates that the applicant has the verifiable education and experience necessary to be a certified Construction Manager. Passing the comprehensive examination is confirmation of those qualifications. The Governors of the Institute, who are the custodians of the Certification, want to make the application process as inclusive as possible to all qualified applicants. Since certification sets one apart from others in the profession, they must have assurances that the applicant has the professional experience and is able to know and apply the Association’s Standards of Practice. To do so, the Governors have developed the application to focus on the information they need to judge the applicant’s professional expertise. Using the registered CCM honorific after one’s name indicates “that professional Construction Management services are being rendered by persons who have demonstrated professional knowledge and competency in the field of program and Construction Management in accordance with the requirements and standards established by the certifier.” There is depth and breadth to Construction Manager certification: Its high standards of practice, concern for continuing education, and Code of Ethics make it – in the words of one owner – “the Gold Standard.” V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 2 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI Certified Construction Manager Part 1: Applicant Eligibility Form 1.0 Q. What is the purpose of the Applicant Eligibility Form? A. Completing the eligibility form will give you an indication that you have or do not have the necessary education and experience to move forward to the application. 1.1 Q. How does the Qualifying Matrix apply to the Applicant Eligibility form? A. The Applicant Eligibility Form is based on the Qualifying Matrix on page 8. For each bracketed [__] area, the applicant must be able to show that she or he has verifiable experience in this function. Once this matrix is completed with all the required brackets checked, the applicant must determine if she or he has 48 months of non‐overlapping Responsible ‐in‐ Charge experience to complete this item. If so, the applicant should complete the grid with the projects’ name, dates, and duration. If the projects cover the qualifying matrix and the duration of that experience is 48 months or more, the applicant has satisfied the RIC experience requirement for eligibility. 2.0 Q. What if I do not have the qualifying experience based on my completion of the matrix? A. You cannot proceed without a minimum of 48 months experience. 2.1 Q. Can I substitute other work or education for the 48 months? A. No. You must have 48 months of Responsible‐in‐Charge experience. There are no substitutions. 3.0 Q. I have the required construction management experience called for in numbers one and two of the Applicant Eligibility Form, but I do not have a degree in construction management. Am I still eligible to apply? A. Your degrees must be in one of the three categories listed from colleges recognized by the US Department of Education, and accredited by ABET, ACCE, NAAB or CHEA. If you have no degree, you may substitute eight additional years of general design/construction experience for a total of 12 years. Part 2: Qualifying Matrix Q. Can I check experience in categories other than the bracketed required roles? A. Yes, in fact, it is to your benefit to list as many verifiable roles, but you must have all the required areas, i.e. those with brackets, as a minimum. Q. I have a good number of the bracketed items but not all. Can I substitute other roles for the required items? A. No, you must have the required roles noted. These are critical and will be verified as part of the application process. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 3 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI Certified Construction Manager Part 3: The Application 3.1 Q. Why am I required to submit a home email address? A. People change jobs during the course of their candidacy. A home email is helpful in contacting you if you do change jobs. 3.1.1 Q. Can I have my preferred name changed during the course of my candidacy? A. Absolutely. Please send us a request in hard copy with your signature as well as the names you used and are using. We will need legal documentation to make the name change. 3.2 Q. I’m currently between jobs. What should I put for current employer? A. List your last position and dates. Be sure that this information corresponds to the dates on your professional resume. 3.3 Q. I have unofficial transcripts of my degree. Can I submit these forms? A. No. You must submit official copies. There are two ways this may be done: have your school send an official copy to our office or submit certified copies in sealed envelopes – as is the practice in most post‐secondary institutions. The Institute does accept transcripts faxed from your college or university’s registrar’s office. 3.3.1 Q. Will I be penalized if I do not have other education in CM related fields? A. No. Section 3.3.2 gives the applicant the opportunity to indicate other educational activities in construction‐related which helps present a better understanding of the applicant. 3.4 Q. Am I confined to just construction management related items? A. Yes, this information gives the reviewer a better picture of the applicant. Service, fraternal, and religious organizations are not appropriate here. 3.5 Q. What is a professional resume? A. A professional résumé follows the conventional rules (no more than two pages in length), while highlighting the functions on the Qualifications Matrix. Your education, special skills and work experience should be arranged in a way that convinces the reader of your expertise. 3.6 Q. What if I don’t know all the information needed for the Project Experience? A. This is a critical section. Make every effort to supply the names and current addresses of the employer and the supervisor. Absence of any information in this section may delay processing your application. 3.6.1 Q. May I supply my own references? A. No. The primary reference must be someone who has adequate knowledge of your role as Responsible‐in‐Charge. Another reference will be needed if only one project is submitted in your documentation for the 48 months Responsible‐in‐Charge requirement. 3.6.2 Q. What if I am unable to contact the employer to verify my RIC experience? A. There are instances where the person cannot be located or who may be deceased. In these cases, you may choose another individual who can attest to your RIC experience. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 4 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI Certified Construction Manager 3.7 Q. What exactly do you want in the section on Management Roles and Responsibilities? A. We want activities that you performed in each section from Project Management through Safety and Risk Management during your 48 months RIC. All areas must be addressed. The application requires you to use past participles of action verbs. These indicate that you performed a particular action on the project. 3.7.1 Q. What would be some examples of activities in pre‐design phase? A. Possible activities would include: Project: CM Plan, Project Procedures Manual; Choosing Consultants Cost: Project Budget, Cost Analysis Time: Master Schedule, Milestone Schedule Quality: Owner Objectives, Organization, Scope Contract: Communication Procedures Safety: Owner Commitment Program: Team, Plan, Administration, Finance 3.7.2 Q. What would be some activities in the design phase? A. Possible activities include but are not limited to the following: Project: CM Plan, Project Procedures Manual Cost: Cost Estimates Time: Master & Milestone Schedule Updates, Design & Pre‐Bid Schedules Quality: Document Control, Value Engineering, Design & Constructability Reviews Contract: Design Review Meetings, Schedule Reports, Project Cost Reports Safety: Safety Considerations in Design Program: Design Packaging, Management 3.7.3 Q . What would be some examples of procurement activities? A. Here are some; these are not meant to be exhaustive. Your experience may vary. Project: CM Plan, Project Procedures Manual Cost: Pricing Addenda, Bid Analysis & Negotiation Time: Contractors Schedule Quality: Ad/Solicit Bids, Bidders List, Instruction to Bidders, Bid Conf, Bid Opening, Pre‐Award Conference, Award Contract: Pre‐Qualification, Bidders Interest Campaign, Bid Packages, Bid Evaluation, Contracts Safety: Drafting Contract Requirements 3.7.4 Q . What are some construction phase activities that might be acceptable? A. Possible activities may include but are not limited to the following: Project: CM Plan, Project Procedures Manual Cost: Schedule of Values, Change Order Control, Claims V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 5 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI Certified Construction Manager Time: Monitoring Contractor Schedules, Impact Analysis, Recovery Schedules, Claims Quality: Inspection/Testing, Record keeping, Changes, Document Control, Deficient Work, Progress Payments, Punch List, Substantial & Final Completion Contract: Owner‐Purchased Equipment, Permits, Insurance, Bonds, Project Site Meetings, Field Reporting, Document Flow, Reporting, Record Drawings Safety: Submittals, Compliance, Meetings, Audits, Reports, Training 3.7.5 Q . Can you give some examples of activities in the post‐construction phase? A. Possible activities include but are not limited to the following: Project: CM Plan, Project Procedures Manual Cost: Final Cost Report Time: Occupancy Plan Quality: Quality Management Assessment with Owner, Final Report Contract: O&M Manuals, Spare Parts, Warranties, Final Permits, Move‐in, Startup, Final Payment, Contract Closeout, Reports 3.7.6 Q . It appears that the project phases intersect with the CM’s roles at each stage. Is that correct? A. Absolutely. And when an individual has verifiable expertise and experience in these areas, that person is a good applicant for certification. 3.8 Q. My response to the “Challenges” section is not two pages; will I be penalized? A. It is to your benefit to list the challenges AND the way you approached it. This gives the reviewer a sense of your problem solving skills. Be concise and avoid padding any response. The short or five‐paragraph essay can be employed here. 3.9 Q. Can I hand draw the project organizational chart? The project organizational chart must be legible and delineate the lines of interaction among all significant parties. The chart must be indicative of the applicant’s experience in construction management. While hand‐drawn charts are acceptable, the Institute prefers those created with a suitable graphics program. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 6 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI Certified Construction Manager Common Mistakes on the CCM Application Rick Rye, CCM, PMP; a Past Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Construction Manager Certification Institute, has more than 40 years of experience in key leadership and managerial roles with respect to construction program and project planning, development, execution, control, and contracting of major projects worldwide. Rye has spent over 28 years with Fluor Corp. He was Deputy Project Director and Director of Controls, Finance and Administration for Fluorʹs efforts on the rebuilding of the World Trade Center Transportation Hub in New York City. He earned his B.S. in engineering science from Arkansas Tech University and his M.S. in program management from George Washington University.
Introduction The Certified Construction Manager (CCM©) program, administered by the Construction Management Certification Institute (CMCI), is a fast‐growing identifier of a professional practitioner in the construction management industry. The number of individuals submitting themselves for candidacy is rapidly increasing. Presently, over 1800 construction managers have earned the CCM designation, and more than 150 are in the process of application or preparing to sit for the examination. However, the CCM application process can be one of the most formidable activities that an applicant can endure. First, applicants must effectively demonstrate to CMCI their experience and the responsibilities they have had in overall program/construction management. Secondly, applicants must clearly demonstrate the leadership roles and responsibilities that will qualify for candidacy by the definition of responsible‐in‐charge, obtain letters of recommendations, and ultimately take a comprehensive examination. If that is not enough, the applicant is faced with the challenge of clearly representing to the CMCI and an independent, objective CMCI Board of Governors that their education, experience, and leadership role meets the qualifying requirements of the CCM program. The application goes under detailed scrutiny by the CMCI Board of Governors, of whom all are CCM professionals and hold responsible positions with CM‐related employers. Underestimating Important Elements Unfortunately, many of the applicants underestimate the most important parts of the application even though they are clearly emphasized in the Application Guidelines. Applicants commonly rely heavily on their professional education and their participation on major complex projects. Other applicants have been found to gloss over the important elements of the application, thinking it somewhat unimportant, and support their qualifying experience by their job title or company position. These alone are not qualifiers that meet the CCM criteria of professionalism. Most mistakes are made because applicants donʹt follow or donʹt understand the application instructions. Unfortunately, these common errors may cause the application to be rejected; these mistakes will significantly delay the processing of the application or receiving a favorable recommendation from the Board of Governors to be advanced to candidacy or both. Some of the most common mistakes on CCM applications can be summarized as follows:  Incomplete project documentation.  Incomplete application information.  Inability to detail their qualifying roles and responsibilities.  Inability to clearly demonstrate responsible‐in‐charge that is required to qualify for candidacy.  Failure to clearly document the qualifying time in general design and construction or responsible‐in‐charge experience. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 1 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI Certified Construction Manager 
Lacking specificity in documenting the required qualifying experience as required by the Qualifications Matrix.  Lacking minimal education requirements.  Although there can be many other mistakes and shortcomings that interrupt the application process, there are three errors that can be fatal if not documented and demonstrated clearly to the Board of Governors. These fatal flaws are the documentation for responsible‐in‐charge, the CM‐related degree, and clear documentation that the applicant has the qualifying experience as an advocate for the owner and the project. Qualifying Responsible‐In‐Charge Experience To be advanced to candidacy for CCM, the applicant must clearly document 48‐months of responsible‐in‐charge role of decision making that directly impacted the successful completion of the project and was directly responsible‐in‐charge of construction management services and for protecting the interests of the project/owner. Often applicants appear to have the requisite knowledge and responsible‐in‐charge experience necessary to qualify for CCM candidacy; however, they do not provide the required documentation – in its completeness ‐ in the section on Project Experience Documentation to support the responsible‐in‐charge experience. If there is one most important part of the application, it is this section, along with the applicant’s reference letters that substantiates this experience. This responsible‐in‐charge role is best determined when a CCM applicant clearly demonstrates CM experience as an extension of staff to the Owner and has been responsible for an entire project with pre‐planning, design, construction, engineering and management functions that can assure the best possible project outcome no matter what type of project delivery method was used. A common misunderstanding by some applicants is that the responsible‐in‐charge requirement can be fulfilled by focused specialty services such as administrative project management, project administrator, systems management or other support services that can be a diversified part of the construction management or project team. However, responsibilities as a project team support member, such as Administrative Project Manager, even though the responsibilities can be comprehensive, do not in itself fulfill the requirements of a CCM candidacy. The most successful documentation to support 48 months of responsible‐in‐charge experience generally relates to building construction or construction management experience as represented by the CMAA Construction Management Standards of Practice. Specifically, CCM certification requires management responsibility in multi‐functional areas as represented by the CCM Qualification Matrix. In addition, by granting certification, CMCI represents to the general population of clients and construction users that the individual has demonstrated the comprehensive knowledge and skill‐sets needed to plan, direct, and manage a CM project and/or project organization. The CMAA Construction Management Standards of Practice is clear about the leadership role expected of professional construction managers overseeing the integrated systems and multiple disciplines that compose a CM team. For example, a qualifying level of responsibilities will include work in construction project control and development, site planning, design, construction methods, construction materials, value analysis, cost estimating, scheduling, contract administration, accounting, business and financial management, safety, building codes and standards, inspection procedures, engineering and architectural sciences, mathematics, statistics and information technology. Another common mistake is the lack of specificity in demonstrating the responsible‐in‐charge (RIC) role for each specific project that is used to represent the required 48 months. It is imperative that specific responsibilities be furnished for each phase of each project. Providing a one‐time summary intended to fit all project experiences is not satisfactory, does not comply with the application requirements, and will not pass the Board of Governors review. The CMCI Governors watch for the documentation of project experiences that involve multiple trade types and a reasonably complex built environment. In the size and scope section of the application, the applicant should explain as clearly as possible, and in detail, the portion of the project in which he or she was responsible‐in‐charge. The Board V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 2 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI Certified Construction Manager of Governors reviewers will use their judgment, based on the information provided by the applicant, to determine that the project is sufficiently complex to qualify. It is essential that the project documentation explain and demonstrate that the experience meets the basic definition of responsible‐in‐charge. Most importantly, the question must be satisfied that the applicant’s decision making responsibilities had direct impact on the successful completion of the project, and that the applicant was directly responsible‐in‐charge for construction management services and for protecting the interests of the project and owner. For example, in the case of the pre‐construction phase related to design and procurement, the applicant is expected to demonstrate that he or she has directly contributed to those phases from a position as a CM and does not require that they be in direct control of design and procurement in these phases. The applicant is expected to be in control of managing the process, not the actual design and/or procurement work. Another example: In the construction phase, the applicant must demonstrate that he or she functioned in a leadership role and was in charge of a project with responsibilities to enhance the control of time, cost, and quality. The applicant must have protected the interests of the project owner through his or her actions in providing the CM services. The 48‐month responsible‐in‐charge experience period requires actual daily responsible‐in‐charge experience and involvement with the listed projects. In general, corporate principal oversight roles do not satisfy this requirement, but active involvement as a Project Executive may do so. The CM Related Degree CMCI defines qualifying degrees to include most commonly Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or Construction Science/Engineering. The qualifying academic experience is expected to include studies in project organizations and management, scheduling, and implementation and execution, cost control applications, constructability, value engineering, contract management, and construction investments and finance as generally accredited by governing bodies such as the American Council for Construction Education or the National Architectural Accreditation Board. When the applicant does not have a CM related degree, the documentation must support a minimum of 96 months, or eight years, of general design, construction, engineering, or construction management experience in addition to the 48 months of responsible‐in‐charge experience needed to qualify for CCM candidacy. This qualifying experience is not to be underestimated in importance. General design and construction experience qualifying as a substitution for a CM related degree is expected to include project related services that employ the applications and techniques of disciplined design, construction and planning. More specifically, this experience is defined as related to the design and construction process, exampled best as related to buildings, roads, bridges, or other built structures. Construction management has clearly evolved from architecture, civil and related engineering, general contracting, and project management of the built environment. Qualifying experience must include working in an environment of coordinating and executing projects through the assembly of materials, equipment, budgets, schedules, contracts, and safety of employees and the general public. Experience focused on specific systems, electronics, or computer technologies, even though related to the construction industry, does not fulfill the required experience and criteria as qualifying substitutions for the CM degree. It is very important that the applicant clarify and distinguish clearly the qualifying experience for responsible‐in‐
charge compared to the general design/construction experience. A total of 144 months of non‐overlapping experience must be clearly documented. A CCM as Advocate for the Owner CCM should be an advocate of the Project and not the Owner. The Project encompasses the Owner, designer, builder and other project team members and a CM is obligated to be fair to all parties. A common shortcoming in V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 3 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI Certified Construction Manager applications is not being clear about the CM contract role and relationship with the owner when documenting the project experiences as responsible‐in‐charge. Many different approaches can be used to successfully deliver a project. Additionally, the applicant’s references must certify that the applicant has functioned in a CM role with responsibility to enhance the control of time, cost and quality on the qualifying project or projects while the owner’s interests have been acceptably protected. Many public and private entities provide construction management services using in‐house resources, with or without a third party construction manager. Such experience is generally acceptable as responsible‐in‐charge experience as long as all other criteria are met. A Final Note: Demonstrating Your Commitment The CCM designation is representative of an individual’s commitment to excellence. This accomplishment is a benefit to both the CM industry and the public at large, but the first step is to negotiate the application process. It is important to read the Application Guidelines carefully and take seriously the qualifying requirements that will lead to candidacy. The Institute’s staff are ready to assist with any questions or clarification about the application process or the required documentation. V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 4 | P a g e CCM Applicant Handbook CMCI Construction Management Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org Certified Construction Manager V2.10: 062013 Construction Manager Certification Institute 7926 Jones Branch Drive, #800 McLean, VA 22102 703.356.2622 (o) | 703.356.6388 (f) www.cmcertification.org | certification@cmaanet.org 5 | P a g e