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Stepping into a new industry is a bit like learning a new language: you start with basic principles, then build on that understanding on the path to "fluency." For Samantha Kirk, an Architectural Sales Specialist at Smoot Associates, that leap began in 2023 when she joined the industry with no prior construction experience. Within a year, her curiosity and commitment to understanding the full scope of the building process led her to pursue CSI’s Construction Documents Technologist (CDT®) certification.
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In this interview, Samantha shares how she prepared for the exam, the strategies that helped her move from newcomer to confident contributor, and the ways the CDT® has transformed her perspective on projects from start to finish. Her story is an inspiring example of how the right tools, determination, and support network can accelerate both professional growth and industry expertise.
Tell us about your work experience before you earned a CSI credential. And why did you choose to take the CDT exam?
I began working in Division 10 in 2023 with no prior experience in the industry. I spent a year as an architectural representative before deciding to pursue the CDT exam, knowing it would deepen my understanding of the project building process and expand my knowledge through real-world application.
How did you prepare for the CDT certification exam?
I took the prep course twice—for the first one, I took the course early on but chose to wait before taking the exam so I could gain more experience, as everything was new to me. When I took it again, I came prepared with the Project Delivery Practice Guide, study flashcards, Quizlet tests, and attended every CSI event I could to deepen my learning. My team at Smoot Associates supported me every step of the way, asking about what I was learning and making sure I had time to fully understand the material.
What helped me most was taking online practice exams and using flashcards. The key is not to simply memorize, but to truly understand the concepts. My advice to anyone preparing for the exam is, ask yourself: Why do contractors have certain responsibilities? Why are due diligence studies important? Focus on grasping the meaning and processes behind the material.
What was the most valuable lesson you gained from earning a CDT credential?
The CDT taught me to see the bigger picture of how every role, document, and decision impacts a project from design through construction. It gave me the ability to communicate more effectively with all stakeholders, anticipate challenges before they happen, and approach projects with a problem-solving mindset.
Click here to learn more about CSI certifications.