Last month I devoted this column to CSI's chapter EDUCATION opportunities.  To continue this theme let's cover CSI's certification programs this month.  As a CSI member you have access to some of the best construction-related training available.  In fact, Ball State University's Construction Management program uses our CDT program as part of their coursework. 

The mind of him who has understanding seeks knowledge . . . . Proverbs 15:14

I must fess up:  CDT is the only certification that I have.  I wish I had taken it prior to taking my architectural licensing exams, and I recommend that any architectural graduates do so.  There is no better summary of the whole construction documents and construction administration process.  And remember that CSI developed the whole MasterFormat system that the entire industry uses.

So let's cover the available certifications, starting at the beginning.  This is intended primarily for our newer members but also as a prompt to those who have been putting off one of these for a while.

Construction Documents Technologist Exam (CDT)

CSI's CDT program has provided foundational training in construction documentation for architects, contractors, contract administrators, specifiers, and manufacturers' representatives for decades.  As the cornerstone of CSI's certification program, it is also prerequisite to all of CSI's advanced certification exams.  Whereas the advanced certifications are more specialized, anyone in CSI would benefit from CDT certification.

Pass the CDT and you'll join an elite group of professionals known in the industry for their comprehensive knowledge of the writing and management of construction documents.  Getting your CDT means learning how a project unfolds from conception to delivery and understanding the documentation involved.

Cost for Members:  $240.  Students $105.  Exams will be offered 30 March through 9 May 2015

Certified Construction Contract Administrator (CCCA)

CSI's CCCA certification teaches you to develop, administer, and enforce construction documentation. People who pass the CCCA exam have proven their skill in quality assurance and quality control, bidding and negotiating procedures, construction observation and inspection, enforcement and liability, and Division 01, General and Supplemental Conditions, agreements, and all other documents related to the project.

I have meant for a long time to add CCCA to my name, but the time commitment is heavy, and being president uses up any spare time you think you might have.  Maybe next year!

Cost for Members:  $280.  Exams will be offered 30 March through 9 May 2015

Certified Construction Specifier (CCS)

A CSI Certified Construction Specifier (CCS) is a skilled product researcher who knows how to investigate and identify cost-effective, efficient solutions, and then communicate those solutions through the specifications.  Getting your CCS means developing an in-depth understanding of agreements, conditions of the contract, Division 01, and their relationships to specifications.  It also means having advanced skills in specification development, enabling you to use spec-writing software more effectively and understanding how to research and source products.

Cost for Members:  $280.  Exams will be offered 30 March through 9 May 2015

Certified Construction Product Representative (CCPR)

A Certified Construction Product Representative (CCPR) is a valued resource called upon by the design team again and again.  Getting your CCPR means making sales calls, presentations, construction meetings, and product shows more effective and knowing the key parts of product binders and other marketing collateral.  It means understanding roles and responsibilities of everyone involved in the project, and how and when to communicate with them plus understanding all phases of the construction documentation and your role in each phase.  It teaches you to speak the same language as the design and contractor teams.

Cost for Members:  $280.  Exams will be offered 30 March through 9 May 2015

Remember that for all of these certifications our chapter offers some of the best chapter-level training in the nation.  We have even begun to webcast them so others can share.  Along with the knowledge gained you will be able to add the appropriate designations after your name on your business card, resume, name tag, email sign-off, etc.  For more information about any of these go here:  http://www.csinet.org/Main-Menu-Category/Certification

February Chapter Meeting

Third Thursday 19 February

The Lodge on Westfield

Making the Jump, LEED version 4.

Describe the current condition of building codes & rating systems from a market perspective.
Compare and contrast LEED v3 and LEED v4.
Outline the requirements/prerequisites which design teams need to address.
Provide highlights of the sustainability aspects included in LEED v4.
Explain definitions, standards and requirements common to the LEED Rating system.

Hot-topic issues such as the product disclosure and certifications by third parties.

SPEAKER: Stewart Whitcomb, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, Sustainability Director, Guidon Design Inc.

Our February Chapter Meeting will be back at one of our old stomping grounds:  The Lodge on Westfield.  For those of you who have not been there, go to parking lot on the south side of The Willows where we usually meet and proceed to the "The Lodge" at the south end of the lake.  Follow the crowd.

Remember to register by noon on Monday!  http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07eajhpyz9bc1e555d&llr=6tpetldab

February's President's Question:  It's too hard to resist.  Back to a car question:

I have had the same dream car since junior high, and I still have never had one.  What is it?     

A.  1967 Mini Cooper S                  B.  1965 Corvette Sting Ray     

C.  1965 Shelby Cobra 427            D.  1965 Shelby Mustang GT350

Be the first to email the correct answer to davidyoung327@gmail.com with the subject heading "Dream Car" and you will receive a $25 gift certificate from Amazon.com.  The correct answer and winner will be revealed at the February chapter meeting.  You must be present to win.

Remember:  I am here to serve our members.  davidyoung327@gmail.com  317.777.0855 cell

Please feel free to share any suggestions, complaints, or needs regarding our chapter - or especially if you wish to volunteer for any of our committees.  We are such a great chapter because so many help in their own way.

CSI Indianapolis Chapter . . .          UNITING, CONNECTING, BUILDING . . .