| The American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE) has
been certifying construction estimators since 1976. While there are other certification
programs in the construction industry, the ASPE program is the only one that tests the
construction estimator’s construction knowledge and estimating skills.
The ASPE certification process requires the candidate to write a
2500 word technical paper, in addition to taking two examinations. The first exam is a
General Knowledge Exam (GEK) consisting of over 500 questions
across a broad variety of construction topics, including AIA documents such as the
Instruction for Bidders and the AIA 201 Contract Between the Owner and Contractor. The
candidate has only four hours in which to
complete this test. Additionally, each candidate must take
a Discipline Specific Test (DST). These exams are a test of the candidate’s specific
area of expertise. Currently ASPE has Discipline Specific Tests in the following
categories,
General Estimating, Earthwork, Concrete, Roofing, Drywall Systems, Painting, Plumbing,
HVAC Piping, HVAC Sheet Metal, and Electrical. Each exam is an eight hour test with
true/false and multiple choice questions as well as estimating problems that are
mini-estimates. As an example, a General Estimator is asked questions across all 16 CSI
Divisions and estimating problems on Earthwork, Concrete, Wood Framing, and Structural
Steel estimating. ASPE is continuing to develop discipline tests for the remaining major
disciplines. Upon successful completion of the program the
candidate receives the designation of Certified Professional Estimator, (CPE). The CPE
is then required to earn points for the Continuing Certification program through
activities such as continuing education, professional contributions, and teaching.
The CPE must renew his certification every three years by accruing
30 points over the previous three years. With this testing and renewal program an
employer can have a high degree of confidence in the ability of their estimating staff
when they hire a CPE.
Recently, the Certification Board has announced a NEW Accelerated Certification Cycle that may be available to some Members wishing to apply for Certification. According to information published in the July 2006 Estimating Today Magazine, page 5, it is theoretically possible that a Candidate might be able to achieve CPE status in approximately 90 days. A great portion of the schedule acceleration is “Candidate Dependent” as it appears that the degree to which it may be accelerated is largely dependent upon the candidate’s own efforts, however, this does seem to offer a timelier alternative to the more traditional CPE track. For more information concerning this method, please contact
Tanya Graham at the SBO Tanya@aspenational.org.
To download the ASPE National
Certification program and
requirements,
Click Here.
For more information on Certification from a local Chapter perspective, please contact
Jim Shoemake,
JF Management, Inc. at
jimshoe114@gmail.com.
To download a Membership
Application in PDF format,
Click Here.
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