“ My professional journey has given me a sense of accomplishment that is indescribable.”— Sarah Metcalf, CFCAM, CMCA, AMS, PCAM
I soon applied for the Association Management Specialist( AMS) designation in 2015. While working toward this designation and demonstrating my commitment to the industry, the Association Board I worked with supported my professional growth financially by paying for courses and hotel stays for further training.
Since there is a five-year waiting period before becoming eligible for the Professional Community Association Manager( PCAM) designation, I chose to pursue the Certified Florida Community Association Manager( CFCAM) designation during that time.
In May 2018, after being a licensed Florida Community Association Manager for five years, I went to Washington, DC, for a case study that tested my knowledge, experience, and integrity to gain a PCAM designation. The classroom and property tour was invaluable, but the next 25 days of sleepless nights writing my findings was challenging. Of the countless photos I took of the property, I used only one as the cover photo. My report exceeded 100 pages, and I had a retired attorney review it as an editor. She was amazed at the detail required of prospective PCAMs, and I believe it was my attention to detail that helped me achieve this hardearned designation.
My professional journey has given me a sense of accomplishment that is indescribable. I would encourage all Association Managers to continue their education and strive for the PCAM designation. I’ ve learned patience and listening skills can be just as valuable as my business degree.
“ The designation not only validates my expertise in managing large-scale c ommunities but also sets me apart in an increasingly competitive industry..”— Leslie Alvarez, CMCA, AMS, LSM, PCAM
Leslie Alvarez, CMCA, AMS, LSM, PCAM Community Association Consulting Experts, Inc.
Pursuing the large-Scale Manager( lSM) designation from Community Associations Institute was one of the most strategic decisions I ' ve made for my career advancement in community association management. The designation not only validates my expertise in managing large-scale communities but also sets me apart in an increasingly competitive industry.
The lSM credential demonstrates my commitment to excellence and professional growth, showing both employers and clients that I possess the specialized knowledge needed to handle the complex challenges of largescale communities. Since obtaining my lSM, I ' ve noticed a significant expansion in career opportunities, with access to more prestigious positions and higher-level roles that specifically seek out lSM holders.
What truly makes the lSM valuable is its recognition within the industry as the gold standard for large-scale management professionals. This credential has opened doors to networking with other elite professionals and has given me the confidence to pursue more ambitious career goals. The investment in obtaining the lSM has already paid dividends through enhanced professional recognition and increased career prospects.
“ Because the RS credential is only awarded to professionals with significant experience and adherence to ethical standards, it sets them apart as trusted experts in the field.”— Patricia Staebler, SRA, RS
Patricia Staebler, SRA, RS Staebler Consulting
Obtaining the RS designation elevates a professional ' s credibility within the community association industry. It demonstrates that an individual possesses a high level of knowledge and experience in conducting reserve studies, which are essential for maintaining the financial health of a community.
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