Cornell UniversityIn any job market, it is important for applicants to set themselves apart from the pack and for employers to be able to quickly identify top talent. Professional certifications are a sure way to do that. Earning a certification allows applicants to demonstrate their abilities and knowledge in their field and gives employers assurance that the prospective employee has the qualities they seek.
Industry associations offer certifications as a way for their members to demonstrate their skills and knowledge. In the grounds management field, the Professional Grounds Management Society (PGMS) offers two different certifications, depending on the current state one the applicant’s career. The Certified Grounds Technician (CGT) program is designed for front-line workers to demonstrate their technical skills to prospective employees. This certification is earned through taking a test that covers technical material that would be known by a top applicant for a team lead or supervisor position.
The Certified Grounds Manager (CGM) program is designed to thoroughly evaluate a manager’s skills. This certification is earned through an extensive exam and a portfolio of work that demonstrates their competence in all areas of grounds management. People who successfully complete this program have demonstrated their expertise and commitment to their field.
Hiring certified individuals gives the employer confidence that their new employee is at the top of their field and has the potential to do well in their new position. For current employees, their new certification will demonstrate they are active in their field and are continuing their professional growth. They have shown they are well rounded and competent in all aspects of grounds management. Employees can be assured that their grounds manager is one of the best in their field and will be a steward of the property they manage.
In future months, we will look at the process to become certified and the steps managers can take to be better prepared. We will also look into the value that certification provides an employer and why they should look to hire certified managers.
Brandon Haley, CGM, is the southeast regional director for the Professional Grounds Management Society and is the chair of PGMS’s certification committee.
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