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In this brief Q&A we feature Alex Murrell, CDT®, an envelope specialist with Hixson Consultants, Inc. in Alabaster, AL. Alex discusses the critical role of the work done in this niche industry and describes how obtaining a CDT certification has helped propel his career forward.
Discover why Alex decided to obtain a CDT, how his mentors supported his pursuit, and how this certification has transformed his approach to construction documents.
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Please provide an overview of your career, and why you chose to work in this industry.
In such a niche industry as the building envelope, we are given a unique opportunity to provide assistance, guidance, and verification through testing in the design and construction of various building assemblies. Water intrusion and damage is a common problem in the commercial and residential world, and my industry really helps mitigate those risks. Our role is to help deliver new buildings that are designed to keep water out, which provides owners with added confidence in their new exteriors. We also help existing buildings stay on track for much-needed life cycle analysis of waterproofing assemblies to extend the useful life of the exteriors.
What prompted you to earn your CDT certification?
Ultimately the certification adds to my credibility as a professional. I chose the CDT because it helps people of all trades and disciplines understand the project delivery process from conception to completion, and beyond. It is incredibly valuable information that I am grateful to have had the opportunity to learn. I will be able to bring a real contribution to my peers with the CDT.
How did you study or prepare for the CDT exam? Did you utilize any CSI materials?
I was very fortunate that some generous professionals within my local CSI chapter devoted two hours every Thursday for 10 weeks to host and conduct a CDT class for free. They broke the curriculum down into manageable pieces and explained things in a way that was very easy to grasp. If possible, I would love to shout out Mr. Carl Manka and Ms. Lynn Jolley for their selflessness in teaching the online class during their free time.
The cleanly distilled information created by the volunteers of the online class I attended was valuable, concise information for learning the exam material, and I will be forever grateful.
I also utilized the CSI Project Delivery Practice Guide and the CSI Construction Specifications Practice Guide to study from in addition to the material provided in our evening classes.
What in particular about the exam process stands out for you?
I think the exam process creates a wonderful challenge. I have taken multiple professional exams in my career, but this was the first that provided no resources on hand to have for reference during the exam—it was entirely closed book.
How did your professional and personal community support you?
I work for a very small company with less than 15 employees, and my superiors—my mentors in the company—paid for me to join CSI and take the exam. That is quite the expense, but the veterans in the company like to believe in us younger, up-and-coming professionals. I am very fortunate for their support.
How do you feel this will impact your future in the industry and inform the work you do?
I am in the early stages of my career still. The knowledge obtained from the CDT certification will allow me to thrive amongst peers in other industries and disciplines.
How has earning your CDT certification informed how you approach new projects, especially when writing, interpreting, and managing construction documents?
Earning the CDT certification has certainly improved my efficacy and efficiency in being able to review, interpret, and make recommendations to and comments on various construction documents. It helps me turn real-life situations into experiences that I can only benefit from.