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What is a construction certification?
A construction certification serves as proof that a worker is knowledgeable in a particular skill or field. Construction certifications come in a variety of forms, many of which are safety-related. Having a safety certification can vouch for a candidate’s ability to keep themselves and their teams safe while carrying out their job duties because many jobs in the construction industry require operating heavy machinery or working in potentially hazardous circumstances.
Construction workers who want to advance their careers may find it especially helpful to obtain certifications related to a particular job title.
8 types of construction certifications
The following eight certifications are available for construction workers:
Certified Construction Manager (CCM)
Construction managers who are qualified and hold the Certified Construction Manager (CCM) certification are recognized as subject-matter experts. The Construction Manager Certification Institute (CMCI), a division of the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA), offers CCM certification to candidates. Candidates must have at least four years of leadership experience in the CMAA-recognized skills, two client references, and eight years of prior experience in construction or design to be eligible for the CCM certification. Additionally, candidates must pass the CCM exam and complete the necessary training requirements in order to renew their CCM certification every three years.
Associate Constructor (AC)
Construction workers and construction managers can obtain the Associate Constructor (AC) certification. This certification identifies workers who possess it as knowledgeable in a variety of general construction areas and possessing expertise-level skills in the subject. Qualified candidates with at least four years of prior construction experience or a four-year degree in construction management have the option to earn this certification through the American Institute of Constructors (AIC). Candidates can submit an application through the AIC and, if accepted, take an exam to earn the AC certification.
Certified Professional Constructor (CPC)
The Associate Constructor (AC) certification is followed by the Certified Professional Constructor (CPC) certification, which grants candidates a more specialized credential. Most candidates complete the AC certification before pursuing the CPC certification, but if you have at least eight years of construction experience, two of which were spent in a management position, you can also apply directly for the CPC certification. With the CPC certification, candidates can demonstrate that they have a thorough understanding of construction practices and industry ethics as well as honed leadership skills.
Candidates must pass the CPC exam, which is given twice a year, and pay the certification fee to obtain the CPC certification.
LEED Green Associate
Environmentally responsible building methods are the focus of the LEED Green Associate certification. With the help of this certification, candidates can demonstrate to potential employers that they are well-versed in the principles of green construction and know how to put those principles into practice. Green Business Certification Inc. offers the LEED Green Associate certification to candidates. (GBCI), who additionally provide specialized certifications that applicants may apply for to complement their LEED Green Associate credential. Reviewing GBCI-provided materials, passing a certification exam, and paying a fee are required to become a LEED Green Associate.
Additionally, every two years, LEED Green Associates must complete at least 15 hours of continuing education in order to maintain their certification.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a popular choice of credential among construction project managers. This is so that employers can be assured that potential employees can manage projects successfully and have a strong combination of soft and technical skills that will benefit their work on a construction site. The Project Management Institute (PMI) provides the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, in addition to other certifications for project managers in particular roles.
By providing documentation of your professional experience, completing an application, paying a fee, and passing the PMP exam, you can obtain your Project Management Professional certification. Additionally, candidates must fulfill a predetermined number of hours of professional development over a three-year period in order to maintain their certification.
Certified Safety Manager (CSM)
Construction workers who want to advance to a job as a safety manager or related position are especially popular for the Certified Safety Manager (CSM) certification. The National Association of Safety Professionals (NASP), which also offers other certifications for safety managers at higher levels, provides this certification. Candidates aim to earn the CSM certification because it recognizes their qualifications as qualified leaders in workplace safety procedures and highlights their capacity for both working alone and managing a team.
Candidates need a bachelor’s degree in occupational health and safety and at least five years of experience in a position involving health and safety to be eligible for the CSM certification. Taking a training course, paying a fee, and passing the CSM exam are required to obtain the certification.
Residential Concrete Foundation Technician
Construction workers who specialize in working with concrete during residential projects are intended for the Residential Concrete Foundation Technician certification. The American Concrete Institute (ACI), which also offers many other certifications for workers who specialize in various areas of concrete work, provides the certification. A candidate’s understanding of ideas like building codes, concrete properties and placement, and problem-solving during a concrete project is confirmed by the Residential Concrete Foundation Technician certification. By paying a fee and passing an exam, candidates can obtain this certification.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Numerous options are available for training programs in safety for the construction industry from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Although they are not designated as certifications specifically, the OSHA programs work in a similar manner by giving graduates of training credentials they can present to prospective employers to demonstrate their expertise. To help students succeed and advance safety in the construction industry, OSHA’s courses typically combine online learning with practical training opportunities.
According to OSHA’s website, their programs include HAZWOPER courses that can last for eight, 24 or 40 hours as well as 10- or 30-hour programs in workplace hazards and ethics.
Please note that Indeed is not affiliated with any of the businesses mentioned in this article.
FAQ
What are certificates in construction?
A thorough, current, and demanding curriculum covering a wide range of aspects of the construction industry and the practical principles of construction management is provided by the certificate in construction management.
Is PMP good for construction?
The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, which carries significant prestige and is respected across many industries, is one of the best certifications you can obtain if you are interested in construction project management.
What is the difference between PMP and CCM?
The Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK), upon which the PMP credential is based, is administered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). The Construction Manager Certification Institute (CMCI), a member of the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA), is responsible for administering the CCM.
Which safety certification is best?
- Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) .
- Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH), American Board of Industrial Hygiene (AIBH) .
- Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM) Certified Safety and Health Manager (CSHM)
