SDA’s transition from Certified Design Firm Administrator (CDFA) to Certificate in Design Firm Operations (CDFO) reflects the evolving leadership role of today’s design firm professionals. To recognize the strength of the original CDFA, existing holders completed only the new Leadership section of the exam. Those who passed earned the CDFO—demonstrating both deep operational knowledge and the leadership skills shaping the future of the profession.

Sarah Wallace, FSDA, LEED Green Associate

Controller at Choate + Hertlein Architects

What inspired you to pursue the CDFO certification after having received your CDFA?

I have always been passionate about leadership and was thrilled when it was recognized as an official focus area. I believe leadership skill development is directly correlated to continued personal and professional growth. I was excited to register and hopefully encourage others to pursue their CDFO!  

How has earning your CDFO credential impacted your confidence, skills, or credibility in your role?

Passing the CDFA helped me shore up knowledge in areas I was less confident in (i.e. HR) and resulted in a higher level of confidence in my skill set all around.  When interviewing for my current position year ago, I know that this credential definitely provided credibility in my A/E/C management abilities. 

Were there any doubts or hurdles you had to overcome in deciding to take the Leadership Section? How did you move past them?

Having participated in the 2024 Path2Success sessions, I felt very confident in registering for the exam.  The only hurdle was making time each week to dedicate to reading the book, watching the videos, and studying.

What surprised you most about the preparation or exam process?

I continue to be surprised by how often I refer to the different Laws of Leadership and also find myself referencing the different types outside of the office as well.

Did you engage with the Path2Success program, CDFO Study Group, mentor, or other resources? If so, how did it help?

I did participate with the Path2Success program originally and watched the recorded sessions again during my study process as provided by the CDFO Study forum. I read all CDFO forum posts and challenged myself to actively post replies to many of them to help engage/inspire others in the group to do the same.  I also was fortunate to have a fellow SDA member send me a test exam prepared by ChatGPT, which helped reinforce areas that needed more focus.  I am a tactile learner, so created flashcards that also helped me retain all the information.  Overall the combination of all available resources made it easy to prepare and reach out as needed throughout the study process.

What topic or section challenged you the most--and how did you tackle it?

The Law of the Inner Circle made me realize I didn't have one.  So that has brought a unique level of awareness to my own personal development that I am working on addressing.

How have your employer or colleagues responded to your certification?

I let the principals know that I planned to take the CDFO exam during my annual review at the beginning of the year while discussing my short-term goals to hold myself accountable and ensure I did not delay. This organically led into the ongoing discussion I have been having regarding updating my title (which recognizes advancement for those of us in smaller firms without actual upward mobility paths).  One of the Principals suggested this could be reviewed after receiving the new credential mid-year. I am looking forward to continuing the title discussion and believe that achieving my CDFO demonstrates my ongoing commitment and dedication to my career in A/E/C business operations and management, which will ultimately help me continue to advocate for myself now and in the future. 

What would you say to someone in the A/E industry who is unsure if the CDFO credential is worth it?

There's no better time to invest in yourself and your future than now, don't hesitate, register today and you will see the difference it makes in your career!