05 Mar How To Become A Certified Facility Manager (CFM)?
A Certified Facility Manager (CFM) is a professional responsible for overseeing the maintenance, operation, and management of facilities within an organization. CFM certification is an internationally recognized credential offered by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA). The Certified Facility Manager certification process assesses competency in the facility management field through education, work experience, and the ability to pass a comprehensive exam that covers 11 competencies facility management domain. CFM training course provides facility management professionals with the knowledge, skills, recognition, and opportunities for career advancement.
Steps To Become A CFM
Education: While there are no specific educational requirements to become a CFM, It is preferable to have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a facility management-related field. Candidates with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, engineering, architecture, or other related fields can also apply. However, practical experience in facility management is mandatory.
Work Experience: Candidates with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in facility management must have a minimum of three years of relevant work experience in facility management. Those with other qualifications must have a minimum of five years of work experience. This experience should cover various aspects of facility management, including operations, maintenance, sustainability, and strategic planning.
CFM Exam: Candidates who meet the educational and experience requirements, can appear for the CFM exam administered by IFMA. The exam covers a wide range of topics related to facility management. Prepare for the exam and get an idea of question patterns and important topics. Joining a CFM training course will help you gain a better understanding of the topics.
Submit your CFM exam application and complete the payment. Wait for IFMA to review and approve your application which will take around 21 business days. Once approved, you can appear for the exam within three months or 90 days. The Certified Facility Manager exam will have 180 multiple-choice questions which are to be completed in four hours. The Certified Facility Manager certification is valid only for three years. To maintain your credentials participate in continuing education activities like online courses or training to earn CEUs. This will help you stay updated on the latest trends, best practices, and technologies in facility management.
The 11 Core Competencies Covered In CFM Exam
The CFM exam assesses 11 core competencies of candidates. The CFM training course focuses on these competencies to help candidates clear the exam on their first attempt.
- Communication
- Finance and business
- Operations and maintenance
- Performance and Quality
- Risk Management
- Project Management
- Occupancy and human factors
- Sustainability
- Leadership and Strategy
- Real Estate
- Facility Information Management and Technology Management
Key Responsibilities Of Certified Facility Manager
A CFM certification will be highly beneficial in your career growth if you are interested in the facility management profession. Certified Facility Managers play a crucial role in ensuring that facilities operate efficiently, safely, and in compliance with industry regulations. The CFM training course will help you excel in the following areas, which will increase your value in the facility management domain. Certified facility manager training from leading institutes will make you adept in facility management skills and take up the following responsibilities.
- Facility Maintenance: A Certified Facility Manager is responsible for the maintenance of buildings and equipment. CFM-certified professionals ensure that repairs are carried out promptly and efficiently to minimize downtime and ensure safety.
- Budgeting and Cost Control: Certified Facility Managers are typically involved in budget planning for facility operations. They manage expenses, negotiate contracts with vendors, and implement cost-saving measures.
- Health and Safety Compliance: Professionals who have undergone a CFM training course will have the necessary skills to ensure facilities meet health, safety, and environmental regulations. They conduct regular inspections and implement procedures to mitigate risks.
- Sustainability Initiatives: Certified Facility Managers implement sustainability programs aimed at reducing energy consumption, waste generation, and environmental impact within facilities.
- Security and Emergency Preparedness: CFM training course helps professionals develop and implement security protocols to safeguard facilities and occupants. CFM-certified professionals will be capable of developing emergency response plans to address crises such as fires, natural disasters, or security threats.
- Vendor and Contractor Management: Managers certified in Facility Management are responsible for maintaining relationships with external service providers and contractors. CFMs ensure that work is performed to high standards and complies with contractual agreements.
Concluding Thoughts
CFM credential is a globally recognized certification in the facility management industry. Certified Facility Managers strive to facilitate coordination and better communication among facility management teams, executive leadership, and other stakeholders. They address concerns and align facility management goals with organizational objectives. CFM training courses offered by leading institutes like BMTC, which also provide training for PMP certification in Qatar, will make you proficient in the skills needed to become a successful Certified Facility Manager.
BMTC Consulting Qatar is a prestigious project management institute that offers several courses in Project Management, Facility Management, Green Building, CMA certification, and many other domains. To know more about these courses read informative articles and blogs regularly published by BMTC. You can also directly contact BMTC Consulting for further details.