Take Building Your Career Seriously
I recently read a column in the February issue of the Construction Specifier Magazine titled “Build the Next Phase of Your Career” by Michael Riscica, founder of Young Architect Academy. The article argues that not all credentials are equal, as some demonstrate competency through rigorous testing, while others mainly reflect paid memberships.
Credentials vs. Competency
Riscica writes, “If you have spent more than five minutes on LinkedIn, or gotten an email from someone’s work account, you have likely noticed the prevalence of people adding credentials, those strips of capital letters, after their names. This can lead to wondering whether you should be collecting credentials just to keep up.”
Riscica notes that for young people in the construction industry, those who don’t have 20 years of experience to fall back on, collecting education credits and joining professional organizations can jump-start their career path. Credentials are not all the same, however.
Some demonstrate competency through rigorous testing, others are educational units that certify you for completing, and some simply show membership in organizations that you have joined, which do show commitment to the industry. At the beginning of your career, where should you start? I believe, as Riscica does, that learning certificates and certifications that require rigorous testing will make you stand out.
Investing in Certifications That Matter
Riscica heavily promotes the Construction Specifications Institute’s Construction Documents Technologist certification. This gives anyone in the construction industry a leg up when it comes to having knowledge of everything from design to project completion, whether you are in sales or architectural design. It also shows your commitment to the industry.
The glass industry has multiple credentials that show your interest in learning and demonstrate your commitment to the industry. I have noticed a growing interest and participation in our educational programs at FHC, while the glazer certification programs offered in the industry are gaining more attention and respect.
Many companies and trade associations offer financial assistance for credentials. Companies want to show that their employees are well educated and up to date on the latest products and codes. Taking advantage of these programs as a young professional will help your career advance.
Do some research and select the credentials that will help you the most. Industry organizations are okay. Learning units show more commitment, and rigorously tested certifications will show that you are not waiting 20 years to learn about your industry.
Paul Daniels, CDT, CSI, AIA