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by Sandy Farnan, PMI Writer
Not a seasoned project manager? Still studying toward your advanced degree? You are uniquely positioned for a professional certification in project management. Many new practitioners, recent graduates and even students find many benefits in earning PMI’s Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)® certification. The CAPM© recognizes a demonstrated understanding of the fundamental knowledge, processes and terminology needed for effective project management. It is perfect for individuals who are still determining their career path, or who already work as subject matter experts on project teams. Here, CAPM certification holders discuss the benefits of having this increasingly popular certification. Gain Knowledge and Tools The CAPM not only validates education or experience, but also helps you hone your project management skills when you prepare for the exam by studying A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide). “Studying for the CAPM gives new practitioners basic instruments to focus their efforts,” says Massimo Fico, CAPM, a project engineer in the aerospace industry in Acerra, Italy. Paulin Choudja, CAPM, agrees. After earning an advanced degree and working as an IT engineer in Douala, Cameroon for two years, Mr. Choudja was among the first people in his country to earn the CAPM. “The CAPM really gives you the foundation to understand project management challenges, and tips and connections to help you overcome those challenges,” he says. Gain Direction in a Specific Career Path Because preparation for the CAPM helps you increase your understanding of project management, it often steers your career path—whether you see project management as the focal point or on the periphery. “The CAPM is important because I believe it paved the way for my career track,” says Oyinkansola Ogundalu, CAPM, a project support officer in Nigeria. “Getting a CAPM helps recent college graduates and people new to the profession work more efficiently and effectively to achieve long-term goals.” Denis Oliana, a freelancer in software development in Essen, Germany, is still working on his college degree in computer science. He took a course from a professor that awarded educational credit toward CAPM eligibility requirements. “Since I was interested in the subject and imagined working in project management, I got certified,” says Mr. Oliana. Gain Confidence, Employment and Promotions Finally, the biggest benefit of earning the CAPM is recognition. Since university graduates are pressured to get jobs and entry-level practitioners are interested in promotions, it makes a difference when they have a certification that employers recognize and seek. In 2004, Paul Trively, CAPM, manager of medical services in Norfolk, Virginia, USA, got a job as a management trainee in project management at a transportation company of 33,000 employees. When he wanted to distinguish himself from fellow project managers, he earned the CAPM. He was promoted twice after that and credits the certification, his academic knowledge and strong communication skills with helping him to be an effective project manager. “The CAPM gave me the confidence to speak up whenever the topic of project management was on the table,” he says. Daniel Caldwell, CAPM, a recent graduate from Texas A&M University (USA) with a degree in civil engineering, says that his initial job search showed that some positions required candidates with the CAPM certification. So, he earned the certification immediately after he finished his final exams for school. “I would advise other students to pursue the CAPM while they are still enrolled in school,” Mr. Caldwell says. After an active cycle of five years, CAPM certification holders are required to renew their certification by taking the exam again. Or, they can continue to advance their careers by pursuing another PMI credential that recognizes either specialized or advanced practice of project management. |
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So Much to Gain with CAPM® Certification| Home BACK TO TOP
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