SDA is committed to encouraging and supporting personal growth, and professional development of individuals working in the AEC Industry. One way SDA delivers on this commitment is offering the CDFA credential. Reaching CDFA status includes passing an exam that covers five core areas of the AEC Industry business: project management, marketing, finance, office administration and human resources.  SDA's Certification Committee works diligently to provide study materials and resources that will aid in preparing for the exam. However, it still takes commitment and effort on the part of each individual. To acknowledge those who have reached CDFA status, and to inspire others to follow in their footsteps, the Certification Committee is pleased to spotlight these accomplished individuals.

Spotlight: Elizabeth Foster, CDFA Reaching Goals

Elizabeth Foster is a/the Executive Assistant with Cuningham in Minneapolis, MN. She has been a member of the SDA Minneapolis/St. Paul Chapter for three years and served two years on the chapter programs committee and is currently chapter secretary.

What motivated you to earn your CDFA certification?

It was a professional development goal of mine. I love learning in general and this was a way to continue that with my career.

Did you have any concerns, or fears, about taking the exam?

I was worried about finding the time to study between work and a personal life. I ended up building study time into my day right after work, so I never even left my desk, just switched my focus.

What study tools did you find most useful?

I found the CDFA-yoU materials and flashcards to be the most helpful. I would create the flashcards at the end of reading the study material and then work on them before starting the next section. It helped me to break down the topics into chunks that were manageable to learn.

Did you learn anything new, or surprising, while preparing for the exam?

I wasn't very up on HR topics before the exam. I learned a lot in that section and really enjoyed how it made my life as an employee easier! Now I better understand how to pick my benefits and how to work with HR.

What role, if any, has your CDFA played in advancing your professional or personal development, growth, network, or career?

It has made me more visible at work, as a number of the amazing professionals in my office also have CDFAs. It helps network us all together and increases our visibility!

Was your employer supportive of your CDFA goals and accomplishments?

Yes, very much so! Cuningham helped with the expenses of registration, encouraged the exam as part of my continuing education, and my coworkers provided much-needed moral support.

How did you, and your firm, celebrate your achievement?

A lovely post was made on our company internal page celebrating the achievement!!

What has obtaining your CDFA meant to you?

It has been a goal achieved (both personally and professionally) and a way to celebrate administrative skills.