Why Earn the CFM?
IFMA’s premier credential for experienced professionals
The Certified Facility Manager® (CFM) credential sets the industry standard for ensuring the knowledge and competence of practicing facility managers as the most respected global credential in facility management.
Now more than ever, recognizing competency, establishing benchmarks and setting performance standards are vital to the global economy. Never before have public and private sector employers relied as much on certification organizations as they do today. Professional associations are now taking a lead role in the development of credentialing programs, and IFMA’s CFM program was the first, and is still the only globally recognized, certification in facility management.
IFMA’s certification process is designed to assess competency in the field through work experience, education and the ability to pass a comprehensive exam that covers 11 competencies (should link to our pdf) that make up the facility management body of knowledge. Since the program began in 1992, more than 3,100 facility managers from 32 countries have achieved this prestigious recognition.
Competency-based
The CFM Exam is competency-based, testing what a person can do compared to standards that define the practice of facility management. One cannot take a course or a simple knowledge-based exam to earn the credential. IFMA’s competency-based program is at a higher level than a knowledge-based program, reflecting the growing importance of facility management in the international business world.
Recognized globally
In addition, the CFM is the only global facility management certification available. Goals of IFMA’s certification program:
- Assure professional excellence
- Establish standards for global professional practice
- Promote the added value of the profession
- Influence the future direction of the profession
CFM Informational Webinar. Learn about the benefits and details of becoming a CFM.
“Establishing my position as a well-rounded, competent facility management professional is of the utmost importance to my organization. The CFM designation has absolutely increased my credibility with my management team, FM staff and my customer base.”
– Scott S. Tibbo, CFM, Director, Real Estate Advisory Services, Expense Management Solutions Inc., Southborough, Mass.
Individual and Workplace Benefits
The credibility and recognition that come with earning your CFM benefits both the individuals who earn the credential and the organizations that employ them.
| Individual | Workplace |
| Distinguish yourself | Assurance of quality |
| Invest in your future | Professional standards |
| Demonstrate your leadership and initiative | Marketability |
| Advance your profession | Focuses and maps professional development |
| Enhance your professional network | Contributes to competitive advantage |
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