PMP Certificate: Is NOW The Time To Get One?

The construction industry is poised for a rebound. The stimulus plan at the hands of President Obama and Congress provides for $46 billion dollars of infrastructure projects. These projects include the building and maintenance of various interstate highways, bridges, roads, housing development, high-speed railway, etc.

Because of the souring economy, almost all state-supported constructions were placed on hold for lack of funds. In December 2008, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials listed over 5,000 highway and bridge projects that are on hold. The projects were in various stages of process and just needed funds to go forward. Unfortunately, tens of thousands were also layed off.

With the passing of the stimulus package, the funds for on-hold construction projects are expected to be available. And many of the highway and bridge projects are biddable within 180 days. That also means that construction can possibly begin within 12 months.

What does this means to you as a construction project manager? It means jobs! Unfortunately, there are many others who are also looking to be part of the construction boom. Some are new to it, and sadly, many are formerly employed trying to get back in. One thing for sure, the rush to get a position will be competitive. So you're going to need as much advantage as possible.

If you're an unemployed construction project manager, while sending out resumés, you ought to consider getting a certification from the PMI (Project Management Institute). You can do this by passing their Project Management Professional Certification Exam (PMP Certification Exam).

The main advantages of certification include showing potential employers that (A) you're dedicated to the profession of project management and (B) you have competent knowledge in the construction industry.

There are three ways you can prepare for the PMP certification exam:

1. Self-study books are available, such as PMP Exam Prep, Fifth Edition: Rita's Course in a Book for Passing the PMP Exam by Rita Mulcahy.
2. Classroom training. You can find a local class at PMI.org.
3. Enroll in an online pmp certification prep course. Several well-known universities offer them, including the University of Phoenix.

Classes are usually 3-5 days long. The do-it-yourself books can take as long as you want.

If you're not working, then the timing is perfect. Most of the jobs will not be created until a few months to a year from now. If you manage to get an interview while preparing for the PMP certification exam, you can beef up your interview by saying that you're getting ready for it. Potential employers will find that admiring.

Lastly, if you're one of the lucky ones who haven't lost their job, you should consider getting certified as well. It's always good for upward mobility or if you want to move to another company. A certificate in project management can only have an upside.

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