Certified Construction Strategy Advisor (CCSA)®
Evaluate your career with the Certified Construction Strategy Advisor (CCSA) certification. Recognized for your strategic expertise and experience, the CCSA sets you apart as a trusted construction industry professional. Unlock new opportunities and gain unparalleled professional credibility. Certify your expertise today with CCSA.
Experience
8+ years of experience
Exam Length
N/A – this is an experienced-based certification
Exam Time
N/A – no exam
Initial price includes first year of certification. Annually thereafter, $250 (member) / $375 (non-member) to maintain certification.
Fees will be processed after your application has been accepted.
Most certified members with this credential typically hold the following titles or job roles.
Don’t see your role on the list? Don’t let that stop you! We welcome diverse talents and skills, so apply today!
- Architect
- Attorney
- BIM professional
- Construction auditor
- Construction lender
- Construction manager
- Construction risk and insurance specialist
- Engineer
- Expert witness
- General Contractor
- Owner’s representative
- Project accountant
- Project controls
- Project manager
- Scheduler
Is CCSA the right fit for your career goals?
With CCSA, you gain recognition for your strategic expertise, extensive experience, and proven leadership in the industry.
The Certified Construction Strategy Advisor (CCSA) certification is an experience-based credential designed for seasoned professionals in the construction industry. This certification recognizes and validates extensive industry experience, strategic expertise, and proven leadership. Unlike traditional certifications, the CCSA focuses on real-world experience, allowing candidates to showcase their comprehensive knowledge and accomplishments gained through years of hands-on work in construction advisory and consulting roles.
Join ICAC to gain experience and recognition: Join
Credential Overview
Eligibility
Criteria for Certified Construction Strategy Advisor Certification
Experience:
- Minimum of 8 years of experience in the construction industry.
- At least 6 years of experience in an advisory or consulting role (internally for multiple projects or externally to a variety of clients).
Project Portfolio:
- Submission of a detailed portfolio showcasing involvement in at least five (5) major construction projects.
- Evidence of significant contributions and leadership in these projects.
Client Testimonials:
- At least two (2) client testimonials attesting to your expertise, professionalism, and impact on project success.
Professional Development:
- Evidence of ongoing professional development, such as attending workshops, seminars, or obtaining additional certifications related to construction management, safety, or sustainability.
Interview:
- Successful completion of an interview with an evaluation panel consisting of industry experts.
These criteria ensure that the CCSA certification is awarded to professionals who have demonstrated extensive experience and expertise in construction strategy and consulting.
Application
Before you begin the application process, verify you have the required materials. Additional suggestions are below.
- Ensure you meet the educational and professional experience requirements for the CCSA certification.
- Fill out the CCSA application form with your personal details, educational background, and work experience.
- Upload copies of your professional license, proof of educational qualifications, and evidence of relevant work experience (i.e., resume).
Submit payment
Congratulations on embarking on this journey towards career advancement!
After ICAC reviews your application, the next step is to complete your application fee payment.
During our review, we may obtain copies of documents requested during the application process.
Application review and interview
Application Review
Application Review Process for Certified Construction Strategy Advisor (CCSA) Candidates:
The application review process for CCSA candidates is thorough and designed to ensure that only the most qualified professionals are certified. Here’s a step-by-step explanation:
Submission of Application:
– Candidates submit their application, including a detailed portfolio, client testimonials, and evidence of professional development.
Initial Screening:
– An administrative team conducts an initial screening to ensure all required documents are included and the application is complete.
Detailed Review by Evaluation Panel:
– An evaluation panel of industry experts reviews the application in detail. This includes:
-Portfolio Assessment: The panel examines the candidate’s portfolio to assess the quality and significance of their contributions to major construction projects.
-Experience Verification: The panel verifies the candidate’s years of experience and roles in advisory or consulting positions.
– Client Testimonials: The panel reviews client testimonials to gauge the candidate’s impact, professionalism, and expertise.
Scoring and Feedback:
– Each member of the evaluation panel scores the application based on predefined criteria. The scores are then averaged to determine if the candidate meets the certification standards.
– The panel may provide feedback or request additional information if needed.
If all items are deemed satisfactorily, the interview process commences.
Interview
The interview process for the Certified Construction Strategy Advisor (CCSA) certification is designed to evaluate the candidate’s experience, expertise, and suitability for the certification. Here’s an overview of the process:
Scheduling the Interview:
Candidates whose applications pass the initial review will be contacted to schedule an interview with the evaluation panel.
Interview Preparation:
Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience, contributions to major projects, and professional achievements. It’s helpful to review the projects in their portfolio and be ready to provide specific examples.
Interview Day:
The interview typically involves a panel of experts who will ask questions about the candidate’s experience, strategic contributions, and professional development. The panel may also discuss the candidate’s portfolio and client testimonials.
Evaluation:
After the interview, the panel will evaluate the candidate’s responses, experience, and overall suitability for the CCSA certification.
Notification:
Candidates will be notified of the panel’s decision. If approved, they will receive the CCSA certification.
The interview process ensures that only qualified and experienced professionals receive the CCSA certification, maintaining its prestige and value in the industry.
Obtain credential
Once the final review (including interview) is complete and approved, you will be awarded the CCSA certification.
You will receive an official notification and a certificate confirming your new credential. CONGRATULATIONS!
Post award requirements
To maintain your certification, you need to meet the following requirenments.
- Earn 8 hours of professional continuing education (CPE) hours annually (Jan-Dec). Education should focus on items relevant to this certification. Example topics include: construction management, technology, and so on.
- Maintain active employment OR practice within the relevant field (working as an hourly contractor also qualifies).
- Follow the code of ethics and professional conduct guidelines set by ICAC. This includes acting with integrity, honesty, and in the best interest of clients or the public.
- Pay annual dues when due (cannot lapse).
- Submit evidence of CPE annually, or when requested by ICAC
- Keep detailed records of CPE ad any other activities related to maintaining the credential.