Thinking about going for the CDT? Read This!

Posted: Thu, Aug 29, 2024

by Michael Houle, CSI-EP, CDT

I had thought I was done with test-taking and studying—college long behind me, those long nights with Red Bull as my only company, and the stress surrounding a timed test. So why would I put myself through the stress again to obtain my CDT certification? Am I crazy? Maybe a little bit, but hear me out.

For those of you who don’t know me, I'm the Business Development Manager and Specification Writer for The Architecture Collaborative (TAC). My job duties mainly involve marketing, networking, business development, request for proposal responses, and contract administration for some of our projects for Public Housing Authority clients.

Since I work at an architecture firm, you would think I have an architecture degree. Surprise, you’d be wrong! Prior to starting at TAC, I was an adjunct lecturer in the English Department at UTK. How I went from getting my bachelor’s and master’s degree in English Literature to working in the A/E industry is a long, twisting story that I don’t have time to tell in this article, so pull me aside another time to ask about it.

All of this to say, I had zero knowledge of the A/E industry before joining TAC two years ago, so taking the CDT was one of my goals to further my knowledge, cement myself in the industry, and gain a better understanding of how to write strong specifications.

When I reached out earlier this year, the CSI Knoxville chapter purchased the official CDT study materials for me to use. The chapter now has these materials for all members to use, which is fantastic! I printed the study guides and blocked time on my calendar every Monday morning to spend solely on studying.

After two weeks of studying, I was shocked to realize that I was already familiar with most of the material. I had expected the study process to be arduous and reminiscent of my long Red Bull nights (I promise this isn’t a Red Bull sponsored article). But I quickly discovered that apart from the niche financing details surrounding project conception, I had already picked up on most of the material just from being in the industry for two years.

So long story short, apart from those first two weeks in February, I didn’t study at all for the CDT.

Wait, why are you getting your pitchforks? Is that Gary Bergeron with a torch? Suzan Jordan, put that sword down! I can explain! I promise I’m not arrogant!

I definitely wouldn’t call the exam "easy," necessarily, but it is crafted to test your knowledge and doesn't try to trick you. For me, even though I am extremely new to the industry, I had no issue passing the exam on the first try. So try not to overthink it! Skim through the study guide, do a few practice sections, and try to identify the gaps in your knowledge. The rest will come naturally to you. Also, try Googling “CDT Exam Flashcards” and going through a few. Most of these are pulled from past exam questions, and I found it helpful in identifying the areas I didn’t know.

Overall, I would definitely recommend taking the CDT exam if you have considered pursuing a certification in the past. My main piece of advice is to trust your gut. If you've been in the field for a few years, you most likely know a good chunk of the material on the exam. 

I'm thankful for the CSI Knoxville chapter for embracing me as a fledgling spec writer. I can't wait to grow my career alongside these wonderful folk. And if you see me at any upcoming monthly CSI meetings, come up to me and tell me your favorite spec section! Also, since Kathy is obsessed with my cat Venus, here's a photo of her.