CCM: Certified Construction Manager

The CCM certification is typically awarded by the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) or a similar professional organization. CCM certification signifies that an individual has met specific education, experience, and examination requirements, indicating their ability to effectively manage and oversee construction projects.

It is often the next step after a candidate becomes a Construction Manager (CM) by completing the Construction Manager in Training (CMIT) program, then earning a mid-level Certified Associate Construction Manager (CACM) certification.

Construction managers who want to demonstrate advanced knowledge and competence in construction management pursue a CCM certification. It’s valuable for those seeking career advancement, project management roles, and the ability to oversee complex construction projects with proficiency and credibility. While not mandatory, the CCM certification can provide a competitive edge and credibility in the industry.

Becoming a CCM offers several benefits to CMs. They include the following.

To be eligible for a CCM certification, candidates will need one of the following:

• A four-year Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC)-related degree with four years of responsible-in-charge (RIC) experience
• A two-year AEC degree, four years of field experience, and four years of RIC experience
• Eight years of field experience or a CACM certification, and four years of RIC experience
• A four-year, non-AEC degree and six years of RIC experience
• Eight years of RIC experience

Should you possess the required experience, you will also need at least two professional references and to pass the CCM exam. After passing the exam, you will earn your CCM certification.

Courses for CCM certification vary in length, but often take an average of one to two years to fully complete.

Here are a few of the common challenges faced by aspiring CCM candidates.

Here are a few tips for preparing for a CCM certification:

• Gather and use study materials such as textbooks, online courses, practice exams, and study guides specifically designed for CCM preparation.
• Develop a structured study plan that allocates time for each topic, allowing you to cover the entire syllabus and practice consistently.
• Regularly take practice exams under simulated test conditions to gauge your readiness, identify areas needing improvement, and become familiar with the exam format.
• Engage with peers who are also preparing for the CCM exam. Collaborate in study groups, participate in online forums, and share insights, resources, and study strategies.

A CCM certification must be renewed every three years via the CMAA. To be eligible for renewal, candidates must possess 25 “renewal points” they earn from professional development courses or other industry activities.  At least one of those points must be earned from a professional development course related to construction safety or ethics. Candidates must also pay a $200 recertification fee.

Those interested in pursuing a CCM certification will need to pay fees for certification, exam registration, a potential exam retake, recertification, reinstatement, and a duplicate certificate fee. In total, these fees add up to roughly $1,200.

For more information and guidance on the CCM program, visit the website of the CMAA, which designates and designs its certification rules. There, you will find a page dedicated to CCM certification, CACM certification, and CMIT certification.

Free skills matrix template. AG5 offers a free industry skills matrix template for CCM certification. Using it, you can develop and implement a plan to ensure that your employees’ CCM-related skills are up to date, comprehensive, compliant, and ready for the future.