The CFM Journey

The CFM Journey

A couple of years ago, I made the commitment to achieve the CFM credential. Naturally, I put this off for awhile… until last August. My procrastination was mostly attributable to not knowing the content of the exam or how to study for it. It seemed like just as much of a daunting task trying figuring out how to prepare for the exam than it was to actually take the exam. The good news is that there is a local organization of Facilities professionals and CFM-accredited members who could answer these questions… the IFMA Sacramento Chapter.

Back in August, several IFMA members interested in pursuing their CFM credential formed a study group. In our first meeting, it was apparent that we all had the same questions. Luckily, two CFM-accredited individuals attended the meeting to answer our questions: Serena Pancoast, CFM, and Norman Calderra, CFM. The information they provided was invaluable to the next few months of studying.

Our study group continued to meet every two weeks. We poured over the information in the CFM Study Guides and discussed sample questions and answers in depth. This process not only helped better understand the exam, but it also helped build a network of peers. Additionally, I attended a two-day preparedness class taught by Kit Tuveson, CFM and IFMA Fellow. It should be noted that he was an integral part of writing the exam and preparation materials, so going directly to the source was extremely beneficial.

I crammed for several days prior to the exam. Admittedly, I was still nervous going into the exam, but I felt better than I would have without preparing so much. Four hours and 180 questions later, I clicked on the “Finish” button of the computerized test. Finally, a screen popped up indicating that I passed.

Needless to say, it was a tremendous relief. Having the new credential has given me more confidence, but it was ultimately the materials and lessons learned during my studies which have been invaluable to my professional development and current job.

If you are interested in pursuing the CFM credential, I would encourage you to reach out to your local IFMA Chapter. For Sacramento Chapter members, here is a link to get you started: http://www.ifmasac.org/educatn.html.


Todd Bierbaum, CFM
Facilities Director
Universal Technical Institute