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Every CSI certification tells a story. For Kathryn E. Fuller, CSI, CDT®, CCCA®, earning her certifications helped expand her expertise, strengthen her career, and deepen her understanding of construction documentation and contract administration. In this Q&A, Kathryn shares her journey, study tips, and advice for professionals considering a CSI certification. |
Tell me about your career and why you chose to work in this industry. And why earn a CSI certification?
I decided to become an architect the summer before entering 8th grade. It was the only profession I could think of that combined all my interests of math, science, art, and building things. I used to say architecture is the only art you can make and get paid for before you die! I was raised to always continue learning and growing throughout my lifetime, and I soaked up the well-rounded education I received in architecture school.
My great grandmother was born in 1897 and she stayed up-to-date on current events and new developments. She continued learning until her passing at the age of 107. It delighted me when she would hold conversations with me about the newest developments in computer technologies! Earning a CSI certification has advanced my career. Employers in the AEC industry recognize and respect the value of these certifications. We received limited education on specifications in architecture school, and specifications are very important in the real world. I inform emerging professionals that studying for the CDT® will help supplement their knowledge when taking AREs.
How did you study or prepare for the certification exams?
When I took the CDT exam, in 2015, it was still a prerequisite for the other CSI certifications. I utilized CSI Spokane Chapter’s in-person CDT study classes, a couple study flashcard sets, and questions posted by a CSI member who sent questions every week to help people study for this exam. I also asked for clarifications from individuals in the Spokane Chapter who had passed the CDT.
For the CCCA®, I ran through the Construction Contract Administration Practice Guide and flashcards from Daniel Gonzales (located on the CCCA study community).
Which did you earn first, your CCCA or your CDT certification, and how did you schedule your life to study for and achieve both of those goals?
I earned the CDT first, as it was a prerequisite for all other CSI certification at the time. I was studying for the AREs (Architectural Registration Exams) at the time, too, and had just passed the Construction Documents and Services exam. Studying for that exam helped me pass the CDT. Since I was a sole specifier for my firm in Spokane, I planned to take the CCS® next. I was not happy with that limited role as a licensed architect, though, and found myself pigeon-holed as a specifier. I desired a broader scope as an architect – to apply all of my knowledge and participate in all aspects of what an architect does - plus I was generally unhappy with my place in life. I moved across the country to East Tennessee and was hired at MBI Companies, Inc. where I became a project manager and specifier.
A couple years ago, I was encouraged to add more alphabet soup to my name by my supervisor. I actually refused at first, since I am halfway through my career, but eventually caved in and do not regret earning the CCCA. Just like any other important exam, one must carve out the same time every day to study and make sure everyone else in the household is busy doing something else! The sacrifice is worth it. If I could study for the CCCA at the ripe old age of 48, it’s not too late for anyone else to buckle down and earn another certification in any area of interest.
How has earning both your CCCA and CDT certification informed how you approach new projects?
Earning the CDT and CCCA proved to my employers that I am serious about, and hold unique knowledge in, the area of specifications. I believe earning both certifications have been the catalysts for my career advancements. My past and present employers value this knowledge and the important role of specifications in the success of every project. These certifications have broadened my knowledge of enforcing the specs during CA, and I am passing on that valuable knowledge to the entire firm. Even if you already perform these duties as part of your project management job, as I do, you will still learn some valuable lessons by studying these materials. I have changed how I perform my job and enforce the specifications based on some things I learned in the study materials.
What is it about working in the AECO industry that is of the most interest to you?
What interests me the most about working in the AECO industry is keeping up to date with new products, and maintaining connections with product manufacturer reps, other architects and specifiers, engineers, and contractors. These interpersonal relationships and the open communication that happens within the CSI membership – the focus on helping each other and lifting up the entire AECO industry through education, is of utmost importance. Through knowledge and communication, we remain relevant and valuable to the future success of architecture and the entire building industry.
What is the best advice you have received from a colleague or mentor that has influenced your trajectory or success?
The best advice I received was from my immediate supervisor at my former firm in Spokane. When he took me with him to our first site meeting for my first role as a project manager, he told me to read the AIA A201 General Conditions and know Division 01 specs backwards and forwards. I took it to heart, and continue to carry his advice through my career. These wise words I also pass on to emerging professionals and new project managers moving into construction administration.
CSI is the construction community’s authority on communication and construction documentation. Through CSI’s Certification Program, you can strengthen and demonstrate your understanding of the entire construction process, and concrete skills in:
• Construction documentation development and administration
• Specification writing and enforcement
• Product research and sourcing
• Communication with the design and contracting teams
Are you ready to take the next step in your career?