Construction project manager associations are an invaluable resource to aid project managers in keeping up to date on issues affecting the construction management field. Construction project managers are responsible for being knowledgeable on various aspects of the construction process, including the bidding process, obtaining necessary bonds, securing financing, scheduling labor and materials, resolving disputes and enforcing safety guidelines. As with other professions, the construction project management field is constantly evolving. Belonging to a construction project management association makes it easy for project managers to stay on top of these changes.

Ways individuals can take advantage of the education and training resources offered by construction project manager organizations include:

1. Completing professional development courses provided by construction project manager associations

2. Attending conferences and workshops given and attended by members of construction project manager associations

3. Subscribing to construction project manager associations publications

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Attend construction project management organizations education and training development programs

Construction project management professional associations provide the tools necessary for you to be successful in your career by offering courses pertaining to accounting, contracts, bidding, project management, quality control, construction safety and time management. Students may receive certification from construction project management training associations upon completion of an established program.

I recommend: The Construction Management Association of America and the Construction Financial Management Association both offer professional development courses in the form of seminars, conferences, online courses and publications. The Construction Management Association of America focuses on the various aspects of construction management while the Construction Financial Management Association emphasizes the financial aspect of construction management such as accounting, cash management and construction taxation.

Attend conferences and workshops sponsored by construction management professional organizations

Conferences and workshops sponsored by construction management associations are an effective way to stay current on changes in the construction management field. Topics covered at these events include the state of the economy and its impact on construction, green construction, construction safety and compliance training.

I recommend: The Western Council of Construction Consumers and Sacramento Builders Exchange are two construction management organizations that host annual events designed to keep individuals informed on the issues affecting the construction industry.

Subscribe to construction management organizations publications to learn the latest techniques

Journals published by construction manager organizations or groups affiliated with an organization for project management allow individuals to keep up to date on the construction project management field, construction techniques and materials, economic impacts on the industry and professional development opportunities.

I recommend: Environmental Design + Construction focuses on green building construction techniques, with a goal to create buildings that are energy efficient and use environmentally friendly products in the construction process. The American Professional Constructor: The Journal of the American Institute of Constructors is a scholarly journal reporting on construction management and standards while encouraging individuals to contribute to the field.

Construction management professional organizations are made up of professionals who want to share their industry knowledge. They can support, network and provide solutions to others in the industry. Members can learn practical tips and solutions for developing sound projects with dependable, consistent outcomes.

Construction project manager associations link you to seminars and workshops that study emerging trends and challenges in the industry, enhancing your professional development. Through campaigns, you gain access to new business opportunities and a voice through the halls of Congress. Consider:

1. Using construction management professional organizations to network and grow professionally.

2. Evaluating the different construction project management association membership levels.

3. Taking advantage of educational opportunities and other industry resources through construction project manager associations.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Join a construction project management association to meet and learn from peers

Construction project management training associations range from international groups to statewide or local organizations. This group of professionals have one goal in mind: to advance the industry.

I recommend: Construction Industry Resource Training Network (CIRTN) brings together training directors in the construction business. CIRTN requires members to attend meetings at least once every two years. Meetings are a great place to post issues, new resources, questions, ideas and other items of mutual interest. Members take turns being the meeting host. Fill out a form if you'd like to get involved with CIRTN meetings. Join the Construction Innovation Forum (CIF) if you want to belong to a group that recognizes and encourages innovation. CIF takes NOVA award nominations by March 1 each year. Download the nomination form to participate. The NOVA award recipient is then honored at the annual banquet, a great event to network and meet others.

Pay annual dues to belong to construction project management training associations

Construction project manager organizations' dues usually range depending on the membership level. Evaluate the level of involvement you want your company to have to determine your fees.

I recommend: Project Management Institute (PMI) is a construction project management association that provides seminars, professional certification and educational programs. Register for membership, events and career development opportunities online. Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) promotes the growth and acceptance of construction management. Membership in CMAA includes more than 4,000 firms and individuals, including engineers, owners, architects, contractors, educators and students. CMAA membership categories include individual, corporate, owner, academic and associate and dues range based on the membership.

Use tools and resources provided by construction management organizations and benefit your career

When you join construction project management organizations, you get access to many career development tools such as magazines, business reports, a career center, courses and seminars; all allowing you to advance your skills, optimize performance, increase your knowledge and boost your career.

I recommend: Construction Owners Association of America (COAA) is a group of like-minded individuals who share your ideas. You'll have a place to turn and a voice in the construction industry. To improve your business, attend conferences, educational seminars and the Owner Training Institute. Search for job openings, by category, online. The American Institute of Building Design (AIBD) is a nonprofit organization for project management that is dedicated to the recognition, development and enhancement of the building design profession. AIBD strives to establish and maintain professional relationships with other organizations within the construction industry. AIBD formed the National Council of Building Design Certification, which is the only Building Design certification program that's recognized nationally. Request a study guide online.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Use project mgmt associations' members list directory to find peers who are also members. This allows you to continue your networking opportunities.