Are You a Project Manager Interested in LEED?

If you’re new to LEED, the whole “LEED” exam process may seem a little confusing and overwhelming at first.

Basically there are four LEED Accredited Professional (AP) credentials you can go for:
• LEED Green Building Design + Construction (BD+C)
• LEED Green Interior Design + Construction
• LEED Green Building Operations + Maintenance
• LEED Homes

The most popular of these is the LEED Green Building Design + Construction.

Most of the time people who become LEED APs are mechanical and electrical engineers, architects, contractors, landscape architects, civil engineers, etc. The LEED AP exams are pretty technical in nature, but if you study and understand the material, you can pass the exams – even if you’re not from the industry. However, it does help if you have access to people who are professionals in the building industry so you can ask them questions as you’re studying.

If you’re serious about becoming a LEED Project Manager, your goal should be to eventually become a LEED AP. But before you can attempt to take any of the LEED AP exams, you must first take and pass the LEED Green Associate Exam. Becoming a LEED Green Associate is the best place for you to start – especially if you’re new to the building industry. Passing the Green Associate exam demonstrates that you have a solid understanding of LEED and green building concepts, LEED certification processes, individual credits, LEED Online (the online environment where LEED projects are managed), etc. There are some fantastic LEED study materials on the market.
You can find a brief overview of LEED certification requirements here:

LEED Quick Overview

If you’re interested in pursuing LEED, I’d recommend that you first purchase a LEED Green Associate book. My favorite is the GBES LEED Green Associate Study Guide: LEED Green Associate Study Guide. This book gives you a fantastic overview of LEED and what you need to know to take and pass the LEED Green Associate exam.

Hope this helps! If you have any specific questions, please let me know.

Sherry Bonelli, LEED Green Associate
www.SucceedAtLEED.com