Reflecting on Our Passion for Certification

What a fantastic year it has been! As we approach the first anniversary of Certification’s merger with CFMA, I’m happy to report that the integration has gone smoothly; Certification staff are collaborating with and becoming more a part of Team CFMA every day. While the progress is real, there’s still more work to be done. Through the committed efforts and team approach of the Certification Board, CFMA Executive Committee, and CFMA Officers and staff, I know we will succeed.

Post-Merger Accomplishments

  • Integration: Planned and executed by the staff and leadership within CFMA and Certification. Great progress and lessons learned came along the way with a firm commitment to the future and ongoing work for continued success.
  • Growth of the Certification Division: Recognized the need for a dedicated staff member and quickly addressed that need with a new hire. Onboarding allowed Tanique Rashada to hit the ground running and make a positive impact from day one.
  • Launch of instant exam results: There’s nothing better than identifying a challenge, coming up with a solution, and implementing a positive change. Having real-time results with immediate scoring is a huge win for Certification and exam takers alike!
  • BKD sponsorship of Certified Construction Industry Financial Professional (CCIFP) Month in August: Market support and belief in our product and process is great. More financial support to come as we continue to grow and expand our credential.
  • Initial steps toward updating the exam: Through monthly test writing meetings already in progress, preparing for the future with a new exam will allow for a seamless rollout down the road.
  • Phil Zak recognized as CCIFP of the Year: Thank you, Phil, for your countless contributions over the years to the success and growth of the Certification program.
  • Commitment to upgrading Certification technology: Building a technology platform for the future and integrating Certification into CFMA’s website will give a “one unified team” look and feel.

The metrics and measurements for Certification are strong despite the challenges and headwinds of the pandemic and remote work environments. Since April 1, 2021, 72 professionals have earned their CCIFP designation. Cheers to us for a fantastic year!

Thank You

I have been blessed with the opportunity to serve as Certification Board Chairman. My goal was to exemplify my passion for Certification in everything I did. My fellow Officers and Board Members made it easy to lead a fantastic and talented team, and they deserve a thank you as well as our collective appreciation. CFMA HQ staff provides support and leadership that is second to none, and they also deserve our appreciation and gratitude. Thank you all for your passion for Certification! 

Copyright © 2022 by the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA). All rights reserved. This article first appeared in March/April 2022 CFMA Building Profits magazine.