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The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a professional credential that requires both experience and training to earn. Just about every industry can benefit from skilled Project Managers (PM). Historically, the discipline is rooted “in the heavy construction, aerospace and defense industries as well as in NASA’s manned space program” (Kerzner, 2013). However, non-traditional project leaders should seriously consider certification in project management without intimidation. The Project Management Institute details the certification process and requirements on its website, www.pmi.org. A candidate must have experience and 35 hours of project management training to apply. The final process step is completion of a comprehensive exam. Once earning the credential, a PM is also required to achieve 60 hours of training and development every three years. With these achievements, “PMP certification holders earn 17 percent more than their non-certified peers according to the Project Management Salary Survey—Eighth Edition” (PMI, 2016). There is no requirement for an engineering or technology degree. Project leaders from any field can apply. However, partly due to the historical context, an applicant should be aware that much of the terminology originates from governmental and technical trades. For this reason, an early commitment to using the PMI vocabulary is recommended. Putting aside business specific vernacular in favor of the PMI specific terms will make exam preparation easier. One tool for learning the vocabulary is available online, the PMI Lexicon of Project Management Terms (PMI, 2016). Certification training, or an exam preparation course, is a good way to meet the education requirement. Local community colleges may offer a semester long class, often provided in conjunction with a local PMI chapter. This option is a good way to learn from practicing professionals and meet other candidates. There are boot-camp style, week-long training opportunities available at a premium for quick results. Candidates benefit from having a foundational knowledge of the discipline prior to taking a short-term exam preparation class. Another consideration in preparing for the certification exam is a commitment to studying the project management standard, known as the Project Management Book of Knowledge (PMBOK, pronounced pem-bock). As part of learning the material, the ability to memorize and write out tables of key information, such as the processes and knowledge areas, will bolster confidence. Although candidates cannot bring any materials when taking the exam, it is a good idea to begin by writing down key information as a reference. Gaining the credential sets you apart from other project leaders. It is evidence that a professional has the knowledge, skills, and experience to lead projects to a successful outcome. All the information to get started is available on the PMI website. Start today! Kerzner, H. (2013). Understanding the Value of a CAPM Certification. Retrieved from www.business2community.com Project Management Institute [PMI]. (2016). www.pmi.org
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