How to Become a Certified Facility Manager (CFM): A Comprehensive Guide
Remember that frustrating day when the office felt like a sauna because the thermostat stopped working, or the time when the elevator was out of service, or when you couldn’t find a meeting room despite three being “available” on the calendar?
Behind the scenes, there’s one professional whose job is to prevent exactly these scenarios: your facilities manager.
Certified facility managers are the reason you can focus on your work without thinking about the building around you. They’re why your badge works every morning, why the lights and heating function properly, and why that coffee stain on the carpet mysteriously disappeared. When heavy rains knock out power, they’re the ones implementing backup plans before you even arrive.
These professionals balance immediate building needs with long-term planning—extending equipment life through preventative maintenance, optimising energy consumption to reduce costs, and ensuring compliance with ever-changing regulations.
They translate between technical contractors and non-technical executives, managing budgets that often represent an organisation’s second-largest expense after personnel.
This is why CFM certification has become increasingly valuable in the facilities management profession.
In this blog, we will look at the growth of the facility management industry with the demand for facility managers growing due to rapid urbanisation. We will also understand the reasons why you must have the credentials and certifications to get into the facility management services.
What is the Meaning of Facility Management?
ISO defines facility management as “an organisational function which integrates people, place and process within the built environment with the purpose of improving the quality of life of people and the productivity of the core business.”
Essentially, it’s the management of infrastructure for people to live, work, and exist seamlessly and effectively.
The Explosive Growth of the Facility Management Industry
The facility management industry is growing fast, and with urbanisation continuing at an unprecedented pace, the need for skilled facilities management professionals has never been greater.
As buildings become more complex, and sustainability becomes a central focus, the demand for facility managers to maintain and oversee these environments is skyrocketing.
The facilities management market was valued at $1.3 trillion in 2024 and is projected to expand to $2.28 trillion by 2032, with a CAGR of 8.2%.
As the industry grows, so does the need for specialised professionals who can handle these increasingly complex responsibilities. That’s where the Certified Facility Manager (CFM) certification by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) comes in—an industry-leading credential designed to validate your skills and help you stand out.
What is the CFM Certification?
The Certified Facility Manager (CFM) certification is a globally recognised credential awarded by IFMA to professionals who demonstrate competency in facility management across 11 core competencies.
Unlike other certifications that are knowledge-based, the CFM evaluates your ability to apply that knowledge in real-world situations, proving that you have the skills necessary to successfully manage and operate complex facilities.
These competencies cover key areas such as:
- Operations & Maintenance
- Project Management
- Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship
- Finance & Budgeting
- Technology Integration
By obtaining the CFM, you prove your ability to manage the challenges of today’s facility environments, showcasing your proficiency in both technical and managerial aspects of the job.
Do You Need a Credential in Facility Management?
With the industry’s growth, facility managers must continuously evolve to stay ahead of the competition. A professional certification like the CFM validates your expertise in the domain, enhances your credibility among peers, and positions you as a leader in the field. A recognised CFM certification is a testament to your competence in managing facilities, people, and resources effectively.
Whether you’re looking to advance in your current role or transition to new opportunities, the CFM certification can boost your career by providing you with a competitive edge and opening doors to new, higher-paying job opportunities.
How Will a CFM Certification Help?
As a facility management professional, there are many reasons why you should aim to get a certification to validate your experience and knowledge. Some of them are listed below:
To Accelerate Career Advancement
Earning the CFM certification can help you climb the career ladder faster. Whether you’re looking for a promotion within your current organisation or seeking a new job elsewhere, the CFM provides employers with a clear indication of your skills and abilities.
This can make you a top contender for higher-paying positions or leadership roles in the field.
To Enhance Your Professional Network
With the CFM certification, you join a global network of over 3,400 active CFMs, connecting you with professionals, mentors, and industry experts from around the world. These connections can lead to valuable opportunities for collaboration, career advancement, and knowledge sharing.
Plus, as a CFM, you’ll have access to IFMA events, chapters, and councils—giving you the chance to network and grow professionally.
To Demonstrate Leadership Competencies
The CFM certification is not just about technical skills—it also highlights your leadership, communication, and strategic thinking abilities.
According to IFMA, 68% of CFM holders occupy managerial or director-level roles, highlighting the certification’s focus on preparing professionals for leadership positions in the field.
To Stay Relevant in a Changing Industry
Facility management is a field that’s constantly evolving, driven by new technologies, sustainability goals, and increasingly complex building systems.
The CFM certification ensures you stay competitive by integrating emerging industry trends and in-demand skills into the curriculum, helping you remain at the forefront of the field.
Who Should Pursue the Facility Management Certification?
The CFM certification is ideal for:
- Mid- to Senior-Level Facility Managers who have the required experience and are looking to validate their expertise.
- Facility Management Professionals seeking to assess and enhance their competencies.
- Engineers, Maintenance Professionals, and Building Managers interested in broadening their knowledge and skills in facility management.
- Anyone Interested in Facility Management who wants to formalise their experience with a respected certification.
What Qualifications Do You Need to Earn the CFM Certification?
To become eligible for the facility management certification, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Education & Experience:
- Hold a Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Facility Management with 3 years of field experience, or
- 5 years of experience in an FM-related field, regardless of educational background.
- Ethics Requirement:
Complete the IFMA Ethics Assessment or submit ethics coursework within 30 days of passing the exam.
Recertify every 3 years and take the Ethics Assessment every other recertification cycle OR every six (6) years.
Steps to Prepare for the CFM Certification Exam
Successfully passing the CFM exam requires thorough preparation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare:
👉 Enrol in a CFM Training Course: Enroling in a comprehensive training course is crucial to understanding the material and passing the exam. Look for a CFM course led by experienced trainers who provide practical insights and real-world examples.
👉 Watch Video Lectures: Either as a part of the training program or on YouTube as additional lectures. Watch videos to understand each core competency, ensuring that you grasp the fundamental concepts needed for the exam.
👉 Study the IFMA CFM Handbook: The official CFM handbook provides in-depth coverage of all the competencies required for the exam. Reading through it will give you a thorough understanding of the subject matter.
👉 Take Practice Quizzes: After each competency, take practice quizzes to assess your knowledge. Reviewing your answers and revisiting any weak areas will help you strengthen your understanding.
👉 Follow Expert Tips: Learn from industry experts who can provide valuable tips, tricks, and real-life examples that can help you pass the exam with confidence.
Enrol in CFM Training at WingsWay Training Institute
At WingsWay Training Institute, we offer comprehensive CFM training courses designed to help you succeed. Our courses are led by certified and experienced instructors who bring real-world insights to the training, ensuring that you are fully prepared to pass the CFM exam.
We integrate technology and sustainability in facility management into our curriculum to keep you in tune with industry trends. With interactive lessons, personalised support, and practical examples, our training program is designed to give you the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the exam and in your career.
Want to know more about us? Visit our website – www.wingswaytraining.com
Why Choose WingsWay Training Institute?
- Certified and Experienced Trainers: Learn from professionals who are experienced and certified in facility management.
- Tailored Training Programs: Our courses are customised to meet the specific needs of each student, ensuring you get the support you need.
- Real-World Examples: Gain practical knowledge through case studies and hands-on learning experiences that reflect the challenges you’ll face in your career.
Take the Leap and Boost Your Career Today
The Certified Facility Manager (CFM) certification is your gateway to a rewarding career in facility management. With the industry growing at a rapid pace and the demand for skilled professionals continuing to rise, now is the perfect time to earn your CFM and take your career to new heights.
Enrol in WingsWay Training Institute’s CFM course and start your journey toward earning one of the most respected credentials in facility management. With our expert instructors and comprehensive training program, you’ll be fully equipped to pass the CFM exam and succeed in the world of facility management.