Explore Credentials That Help Build Your Career

The Careers Building Communities Credentials Hub connects you to trusted credential opportunities from leading industry organizations — helping you discover what’s possible and when you may be ready to take the next step.

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What Are Credentials?

Credentials are certifications, licenses, certificates, and professional designations that demonstrate knowledge, experience, and professional achievement.

Across the built environment, credentials help professionals:

  • Build specialized expertise

  • Increase credibility with employers and clients

  • Qualify for leadership opportunities

  • Stay current with industry standards and technology

  • Advance into new career pathways

Some credentials are required for specific careers, while others help professionals grow their skills and stand out in a competitive job market.

Explore Credentials

The built environment offers many career pathways — and each sector includes unique credentials that support professional growth. Explore examples of credentials connected to careers across the industry.

  • Certified Construction Industry Financial Professional (CCIFP)

    The Certified Construction Industry Financial Professional (CCIFP®) certification is the only ANAB-accredited certification specifically designed for professionals who manage the financial operations of construction companies. It validates expertise across key areas such as accounting and

    Requirements

    Education:

    Experience:

    N/A

    N/A

  • NCIDQ Certification

    The NCIDQ Certification validates an interior designer’s knowledge, experience, and skills and is required for many types of interior design practice in regulated jurisdictions across North America.

    Requirements

    Education:

    Experience:

    2-Year College

    N/A

  • Accredited Land Consultant Designation

    The ALC Designation recognizes the nation's top-performing and most experienced land real estate professionals across a wide range of land specialties.

    Requirements

    Education:

    Experience:

    N/A

    N/A

  • Landscape Architectural Accreditation Board (LAAB)

    LAAB evaluates landscape architectural degree programs objectively and judges whether a school's landscape architectural degree program is in compliance with the accreditation standards.

    Requirements

    Education:

    Experience:

    N/A

    N/A

  • Registered Apprenticeship Programs

    ABC offers U.S. Department of Labor-registered apprenticeship programs that combine classroom and hands-on training, leading to an apprenticeship certificate upon completion.

    Requirements

    Education:

    Experience:

    N/A

    N/A

  • Systems Maintenance Administrator (SMA®)

    For professionals who are responsible for the operations of the building, as well as management of the team of technicians assigned to the building. Improve operations, create energy efficiencies, reduce costs, enhance the value of

    Requirements

    Education:

    Experience:

    N/A

    N/A

  • Systems Maintenance Technician (SMT®)

    For maintenance technicians and professionals involved in maintaining major building systems such as heating, refrigeration, electrical, and plumbing. Master technologies and trends in the maintenance field so you can run energy-efficient, environmentally sound, and cost-effective

    Requirements

    Education:

    Experience:

    N/A

    N/A

  • Facilities Management Administrator (FMA®)

    For assistant facility managers, facility managers, and professionals responsible for daily operations and maintenance. Manage facilities in a way that best supports staff and fits into the organization's overall objectives while providing information on new

    Requirements

    Education:

    Experience:

    N/A

    N/A

  • Building Energy Certificate (BEC)

    For professionals in operational and system maintenance roles. Learn the necessary foundational concepts that help reduce energy consumption from a technical perspective. Gain the skills necessary to implement sustainability efforts in the built environment for

    Requirements

    Education:

    Experience:

    N/A

    N/A

  • Building Systems Maintenance Certificate (SMC)

    For professionals who operate and maintain multiple building systems. Educate yourself on key building principles, including efficient energy management and water treatment and gain a better understanding of how HVAC, plumbing, and other building systems

    Requirements

    Education:

    Experience:

    N/A

    N/A

  • Facilities Management Certificate (FMC)

    For professionals who oversee the ongoing operation and maintenance of facilities. Learn how to maximize building efficiency, manage operations and maintain building systems in a cost-effective manner.

    Requirements

    Education:

    Experience:

    N/A

    N/A

  • LEED AP with specialty

    A LEED AP credential distinguishes those with advanced knowledge in green building, plus expertise in a particular LEED rating system. Previous experience working on a LEED-registered project is strongly recommended.

    Requirements

    Education:

    Experience:

    N/A

    N/A

Latest News

America Is Shifting Toward Skills-Based Workforce Training

The Financial Times reported on the growing national movement toward skills-based hiring, apprenticeships, certifications, and industry training as employers increasingly prioritize practical competencies over traditional degree pathways alone.

Connecticut Launches Expanded Industry Credential Pathways for Students

Connecticut introduced more than 300 industry-recognized credentials available to high school students across fields including manufacturing, technology, healthcare, and professional services.

Maryland Expands Industry-Led Workforce Credential Programs

Maryland Governor Wes Moore announced an additional $2.6 million in workforce development grants to help employers connect workers to occupational training and industry-recognized credentials.