The Constructor Certification Program was created in 1996 to provide constructors a professional certification of the skills and knowledge needed to manage the complex construction process. The Constructor Certification Commission is a semi-autonomous organization within the American Institute of Constructors that oversees the program, including the creation of the examination and the policies and procedures that govern the program. The Commission is governed by a Board of Governors.
What is Certification?
Certification is a voluntary and non-governmental process to recognize the education and/or experience of an individual who meets certain criteria and standards. It is ongoing proof of commitment to ethics and professionalism and is something that is maintained throughout ones career. To become certified an individual must meet qualifying requirements, apply for an examination, and once approved, sit for the examination. Upon passing the examination and agreeing to the AIC Certificant Agreement, and individual is conferred the certification.
Certification Programs
The Constructor Certification Program includes two levels of certification, the Associate Constructor (AC) and the Certified Professional Constructor (CPC).
Associate Constructor (AC)
Associate Constructor (AC) is the first level of certification in the Constructor Certification Program. This level of certification is ideal of recent graduates of 4-Year Construction Management Programs or those transitioning into construction management from other industries. AC’s are individuals that have a high level of skill and knowledge in managing the process of construction. Why is this important? AC’s bring value to any project as they have a verified skill and knowledge level that is based on a nearly 20 year old body of knowledge that continues to be refined. AC’s bring peace of mind that you have a high performing individual on your team who seeks continual professional improvement through our required Continuing Professional Development program. In addition, each AC agrees to abide by the AIC Code of Ethics, ensuring that they are professional and ethical members of the industry. Learn more…
Certified Professional Constructor (CPC)
Certified Professional Constructor (CPC) is the highest level of certification in the Constructor Certification Program. This level of certification is ideal for individuals with established constructors who have several years of project oversight experience and seek to take their career to the next level. Individuals that seek the CPC designation are experienced at managing the process of construction. Why is a CPC important to have on a construction project? CPC’s provide a project with an individual who has verified experience and skills, giving you peace of mind that your project is being managed efficiently and effectively. You also know that you have an ethical and professional managing your project as all CPC’s abide by the AIC Code of Ethics.
In the Spring of 2016 the CPC Examination transitioned into a Computer Based Test. The CPC examination is now given twice per year during a 2 week exam window at hundreds of testing centers across the United States. The exam features 175 Questions and is completed in one 4-hour exam session.
The Benefits of Certification
Certification benefits all parties involved in the construction process as it raises the standards of professional practices. Certified Constructors practice with a high level professionalism and ethics. Here are some other ways in which certification benefits those involved in construction:
Benefits to the Constructor
- Is a recognized professional credential indicating a high level of skill and knowledge of the construction process.
- Enhances an individual’s image as a professional to their company, client and the public.
- Increases self confidence by knowing they have met a national standard of professional practice.
Benefits to the Employer
- Provides a third party assessment of an employee’s skills and knowledge, based on a comprehensive national standard.
- Provides your company with a competitive marketing advantage by showing the employers dedication to the professionalism of its employees.
- Provides assurance of employees continued professional development through the maintenance of their certification.
Benefits to the Owners
- Provides an increased level of assurance of the skills of their construction team.
- Provides a means to pre-qualify contractors who bid on their projects by requiring certified professionals on their project.
- Provides a higher level of assurance that their project is being managed effectively and efficiently.
- Peace of mind that they have a professional and ethical management team.
Careers Represented by this Association
Construction Managers, Project Engineers, Project Managers, Facilities Director,Field Engineer, Drafters, Landscape Architect
