|
|
When Hayley Skladanek started working in the built environment, she was eager to learn as much as she could. In just three months, she not only earned her Construction Documents Technologist (CDT®) credential but also set her sights on the Construction Contract Administrator (CCCA®) certification. For Hayley, the process wasn’t just about passing an exam, it was about unlocking a deeper understanding of the work she did every day.
|
Using everything from color-coded note cards to flashcards on the go, Hayley’s preparation was both determined and creative. In this interview, she shares how she approached studying, what she learned along the way, and how earning the CCCA® has boosted her confidence, skills, and contributions to her CSI community.
Tell us about your work experience before you earned a CSI credential. And why did you choose to take the CCCA exam?
I had been working in the built environment for three years when I began my journey to CCCA with CSI. I started with the CDT®. I spent every spare moment of the three months between registration and my exam date studying. I took advantage of all of the tools CSI made available, from the Practice Guide, to the Study Workbook, to study groups available through my membership in CSI. My desk was often a sea of color-coded notecards, glitter gel pens, and highlighters. I never left home without flashcards and my notebook. I walked out of the CDT exam feeling confident and proud, knowing I'd worked hard and that I definitely knew the material. After waiting the AGONIZING six to eight weeks for my results, I was very proud of having passed the exam and invigorated to continue the pursuit for CCCA. I registered on the first day and got back to work immediately. So much understanding of the work I was already doing every day was unlocked as I continued to study. With each new chapter I tackled, more of the contract administrative process and the importance of being thorough became crystal clear. I just received my passing results for the CCCA. I am so proud of how well I did, and more than that I am encouraged in my ability to perform at the highest metric as I move forward with all of the skill and knowledge the CSI certifications have afforded me.
How did you prepare for the CCCA certification exam?
The mainstay of my studying success with CSI was the interactive Study Workbook, where I would take the quizzes daily. I also used the flashcards every day to really home in on the areas of each domain that needed more attention.
What was the most valuable lesson you gained from earning a CCCA credential?
The value of knowing that I have achieved a measurable grasp of the subject matter I deal with each day has been priceless. My confidence and my curiosity for further understanding of the contract administrative process and its integral importance within the built environment is my most valuable takeaway from earning these credentials.
Since earning your CCCA credential, how has your career progressed?
I am participating more in my local chapter of CSI and having great discussions with colleagues about how to best apply the knowledge and skills I've attained with CSI.