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As part of our Administrative Professionals Month celebration, SDA is highlighting the professionals who keep A/E/C firms running—those who bring clarity, connection, and consistency to their organizations every day.
This week, we’re sharing a perspective on finding your professional home and growing with confidence through community and credentials by Melanie Schmidt, CDFO, Office Administrator for Snell Engineering Consultants in Sarasota, FL.
When I first stumbled upon the Society for Design Firm Administrators (SDA), I had no idea I was about to discover a professional community that would fundamentally change my career trajectory. Like many design firm administrators, I had been navigating the unique challenges of our industry primarily on my own, learning through trial and error, and often feeling isolated in my role. More importantly, SDA helped me find a way to turn what had been just a job into a true career with clear pathways for growth and professional development.
The Discovery That Changed Everything
My journey with SDA began most serendipitously. I had approached my Principal, also my supervisor, about advancing my career within the business, seeking guidance on professional development opportunities. As fate would have it, he had recently learned about SDA through a client conversation and immediately saw the potential value for my role. He forwarded the organization information to me and, recognizing the opportunity, told me the firm would support my membership in SDA and send me to EDSymposium, the yearly SDA conference. Three jam-packed days of learning, networking, and empowerment. But he didn't stop there – he challenged me with setting a goal of earning the CDFA credential.
That conversation was a pivotal moment in my career. Here was the Principal of my firm, not only supporting my professional development but actively encouraging me to pursue industry-specific credentials that would benefit both my growth and our firm's operations.
The architecture and design industry has its own particular administrative challenges—from project management complexities to unique billing structures, from managing creative personalities to understanding the intricacies of professional liability. Traditional business administration resources often fall short of addressing these specialized needs.
When I explored sdanational.org, I immediately recognized that I had found MY people. Here was an entire organization of A/E/C administrative professionals who understood exactly what I dealt with every day. The wealth of resources, the community of experienced professionals, and the commitment to advancing our profession were exactly what I had been searching for without even knowing it existed.
Growing Through Credentials: CDFA and CDFO
One of the most transformative aspects of my SDA membership has been pursuing and achieving both the Certified Design Firm Administrator (CDFA) and Certified Design Firm Operations (CDFO) credentials. These certifications have not only validated my expertise but have also provided structured learning opportunities that have made me significantly more effective in my role.
The CDFA Journey
Earning my CDFA credential was a comprehensive deep dive into the fundamentals of design firm administration. The program covered everything from financial management and human resources to project administration and business development support. What I appreciated most was how the curriculum was specifically tailored to our industry's unique needs. Instead of generic business principles, I was learning best practices that had been developed by and for design firm administrators.
The preparation process itself was incredibly valuable. It forced me to examine my own practices critically and identify areas for improvement. The networking opportunities with other CDFA candidates and certified professionals created lasting professional relationships that continue to benefit me today.
Advancing to CDFO
Building on the foundation of my CDFA, pursuing the CDFO credential allowed me to dive deeper into the operational aspects of design firm management. This advanced certification covers strategic planning, advanced financial management, leadership development, and organizational effectiveness – all crucial skills for senior administrators who want to contribute at a strategic level.
The CDFO program challenged me to think beyond day-to-day operations and consider how I could contribute to my firm's long-term success. It gave me the tools and knowledge to participate meaningfully in executive-level discussions about firm direction, growth strategies, and operational improvements.
The Value of Member at Large Status
Being a Member at Large with SDA has opened doors I didn't even know existed. This membership level provides access to an incredible network of professionals nationwide, each bringing their expertise and perspectives to our shared challenges.
The Ripple Effect of Professional Growth
The knowledge and connections I've gained through SDA haven't just benefited my career—they've made me a more valuable contributor to my firm and the broader design community. The best practices I've learned have improved our operational efficiency, the financial management techniques have contributed to better project outcomes, and the leadership skills have enhanced my ability to support our design teams effectively.
My colleagues have noticed the difference. I approach challenges more confidently, armed with proven strategies and a network of professionals I can consult when facing new situations. The credibility that comes with CDFA and CDFO certification has also elevated my standing within my firm and opened up new opportunities for leadership and growth.
Looking Forward
My journey with SDA continues to evolve. The organization's commitment to advancing the profession means there are always new learning opportunities, emerging best practices to explore, and ways to contribute to our professional community. Whether participating in research initiatives, mentoring newer administrators, or helping to develop new educational programs, SDA provides numerous avenues for ongoing engagement and growth.
I can't recommend it highly enough for any design firm administrator who has yet to discover SDA. Whether you're just starting your career or are a seasoned professional, the Society of Design Firm Administrators offers resources, community, and opportunities that can transform your professional journey.
The investment in SDA membership and credentials isn't just an investment in your career—it's an investment in advancing our entire profession. By joining this community of dedicated professionals, you become part of a movement elevating the standards and recognition of design firm administration.
Finding SDA wasn't just finding a professional organization – it was finding my professional home. And that home has made all the difference in my career journey.
If Melanie’s story resonates with you, we invite you to continue the conversation:
Leave a comment below to share your thoughts or encourage a fellow member
SDA is always looking for ways to bring fresh perspectives to our members. We’re pleased to share this guest contribution from Rich Friedman, who explores how A/E/C firms are rethinking employee engagement in meaningful and lasting ways.
In an era defined by labor shortages, generational change, and rising employee expectations, engagement has become one of the most powerful drivers of retention, recruitment, and long-term stability.
But leading firms aren’t relying on generic programs. Instead, they’re creating distinct, firm-specific approaches that give employees a voice, reinforce values, and build real connection.
Here are three examples of what that looks like in action.
Recognition as Culture: Bergmeyer’s Unicorn Awards
At Bergmeyer, engagement starts with recognition—and not the top-down kind.
Their “Unicorn Award” is a monthly, peer-nominated program open to everyone in the firm. Employees nominate colleagues who demonstrate creativity, collaboration, or going above and beyond.
Rather than being a marketing initiative, the program is intentionally internal. Winners are celebrated at all-hands meetings and receive a custom handmade award, reinforcing that recognition is personal and meaningful.
What makes it work?
Peer-driven, not leadership-selected
Inclusive across all roles
Embedded into regular firm rituals
The result is a culture where people feel seen—not just for results, but for how they contribute.
Engagement Through Structure: MKSK’s Staff Council
MKSK takes a different approach—focusing on structure and voice.
After transitioning to a 100% ESOP, leadership recognized that while ownership had expanded, decision-making had not. Their solution: a Staff Council representing employees across offices and levels.
The council meets regularly, gathers feedback through informal conversations, and brings real issues to leadership—ranging from benefits to workplace policies.
What makes this effective:
Direct line between staff and leadership
Rotating participation to broaden involvement
Transparency about what can (and can’t) be implemented
An unexpected benefit?
The council has become a leadership development pipeline, giving emerging professionals insight into how decisions are made.
Stepping Away to Reconnect: The MKSK Design Summit
MKSK also invests in connection at a firmwide level through its annual Design Summit.
This two-day event brings employees together from across offices for:
Project tours and learning sessions
Peer connection and mentorship
External speakers outside the firm’s daily work
While the investment is significant, the return is clear:
Stronger relationships, shared identity, and a sense that employees are part of something bigger.
As one leader put it:
“It feels like a conference—but it’s ours. And that distinction matters.”
Different Approaches, Same Outcome
While these examples differ in style—from playful recognition to structured governance—they share one critical trait:
Intentionality.
Each firm has built engagement strategies that reflect its culture, not someone else’s template.
Engagement as a Strategy, Not an Add-On
The most successful firms don’t treat engagement as an HR initiative or occasional program.
They embed it into:
How decisions are made
How recognition happens
How leaders show up every day
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution—but there is a common principle:
Understand what your people value
Create ways for them to be heard
Reinforce it consistently
In today’s market, firms that do this well aren’t just improving culture—they’re building organizations people want to stay with.
Join the Conversation
What unique employee engagement strategies have worked in your firm?
Share your ideas in the comments—we’d love to continue the conversation and highlight additional approaches from across the SDA community.
This article has been adapted for SDA members from an original piece by Rich Friedman.
Posted By Jennifer Greene, CDFO,
Tuesday, January 30, 2024
Updated: Wednesday, January 31, 2024
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 Blair Valdiviseo, CDFA, Operations Manager with VIA design architects, pc in Norfolk, VA.
What motivated you to earn your CDFA certification?
I was motivated to earn my CDFA certification because I want to be more validated and respected in the industry and by my peers. I wanted to challenge myself as well!
Did you have any concerns, or fears, about taking the exam?
I hold “bad-test-taker” against myself, so I knew I had to prepare well in order to perform well on the CDFA exam.
What study tools did you find most useful?
CDFA-yoU, practice questions, and printing out the materials. I printed out all of the category-specific sections into one bound document. I broke up each section and only focused on one at a time. I took the practice questions multiple times and continued to check my progress by how many I answered correctly per section. I tried my best to corelate exam materials to real-life-experiences in my role.
Did you learn anything new, or surprising, while preparing for the exam?
Yes! The IT section was very interesting, because I am assisting with a lot of IT focused goals right now. I felt I learned the most from that section. The Project Management section was also interesting, and I feel that I can share that new knowledge with my peers at work to help the improve their own processes and tactics.
What section of the exam was the most difficult for you?
I did the most poorly on the Marketing section, but that is the least of my day-to-day responsibility, so it makes sense that I had the least amount of practical experience to relate to the material.
What role, if any, has your CDFA played in advancing your professional or personal development, growth, network or career?
So far, the designation has really only bolstered me at my firm, but I am excited to get more involved with my local SDA chapter and continue learning from others and building my network.
Was your employer supportive of your CDFA goals and accomplishment?
Yes! A social media post regarding my accomplishment, internal announcement, and I received a bonus for my achievement.
What is your top tip to someone considering the pursuit of a CDFA designation?
Prepare well by really getting an understanding of the materials included, relate as much as you can to rea-world experiences, and do the practice questions A LOT!
What has obtaining your CDFA meant to you?
Earning the credential, and also only missing 10 questions on the exam, has shown me that even in a busy, fast-paced phase of life, I can focus on something and put the effort and dedication into it that will result in POSITIVE experiences and results in the end. If you put your mind to it…it can happen.
Posted By Administration,
Thursday, June 25, 2020
Updated: Thursday, June 25, 2020
Sometimes the most powerful learning experiences are not found in a classroom or in a book.In 2015 I attended the National SDA EDSymposium conference in Golden, CO, and signed up to participate in the optional rock wall climbing challenge one afternoon.I did not have any aspirations of mastering the sport of rock climbing but wanted to try something outside my comfort zone.While EDSymposium is known for its renowned speakers, elevated continuing education sessions, and premiere networking opportunities, I was blown away at what an amazing analogy this optional experience was for SDA, for my career, and for my life in general.
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