We've been busy interviewing some of our members who have recently accomplished their CDFA designation by passing the Certified Design Firm Administrator exam. This week we'll hear from Justin Hoff, CDFA, Office Manager with Martin Gardner Architecture in Marion, Iowa.

What motivated you to earn your CDFA certification?

From early on in my career in the architecture field I was looking for ways to increase my knowledge and exposure about how design firms operate and project management.

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

I did not have any concerns about the exam. I think though that working in the industry for over 13 years definitely helped give me the confidence to succeed.

What study tools did you find most useful?

I found the CDFA-yoU materials to be most beneficial to me. Going through the weekly group discussions was helpful to see what other options and ideas existed was important for me to look at things in another light. It was also helpful to see the weekly sampled test questions.

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

I learned a lot of new things about travel. Being that I work in a smaller firm that mostly operates in one state most travel is by car with limited need for hotel accommodations.

What section of the exam was the most difficult for you?

Oddly enough I struggled the most with Office Administration I thought that this would have been my strongest area, but any more office administration is such a small part of my daily duties because we have automated so many of those processes.

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

CDFA plays a large roll in my professional and especially my personal growth. Obtaining my CDFA has been a goal I have had for over 10 years. So to finally complete that personally feels great, and has allowed me to ask myself the questions, What’s next? Professionally it gives credence to me what others have said for a long time. I’m a “Rock Star”.

Was your employer supportive of your CDFA goals and accomplishment?

My employer is very supportive of personal and professional growth. Everyone here sets goals each year, and our President and Principal Architect supports each individual differently on their needs.

How did you and your firm, celebrate your achievement?

My firm posted my achievement in our office “Bragging Rights” team chat. I celebrated by feeling relief that I passed and with family.

What has obtaining your CDFA meant to you?

Obtaining my CDFA means that I can accomplish goals that I set, no matter how long it takes, and how many distractions get in the way. To me it has given me the confidence to look at what’s next for my growth, knowing that I can succeed.

Are you inspired to accomplish your CDFA designation? Learn more about the process here: https://bit.ly/SDACDFALearnMore