Guide to Construction Project Management Organizations

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.