Jennifer Eisenbarth, CPSM

Proposal Manager | Freese and Nichols, Inc.

Why did you pursue CPSM certification?

I reached a point in my career where having a seat at the decision-makers’ table without current, relevant proof of my knowledge and expertise was going to be very challenging. Our technical peers in the A/E/C industry have many types of professional certifications; if I wanted to be viewed as a peer, I needed to invest the time and obtain my CPSM.

Did you participate in a CPSM study group? If so, what did you gain? If not, how did you study?

The CPSM Study Group is a major reason for the “why” and the entire reason for the “how” I passed the exam. I have been in A/E/C marketing since 1998 and a major reason that I procrastinated was fear of going on that unknown journey alone. When I found out about the study group, I was so excited! The best part was the amazing people I met in the study group. They are smart, engaging, enthusiastic and funny. It was so motivating to see each of them achieve the CPSM certification throughout the year. Also, as a result of the study group, I became more involved with my SMPS Chapter. Best of all, I have made true, wonderful friends who have supported me both personally and professionally. I got more than I could have ever hoped for from the entire experience.

What would you recommend to anyone considering taking the exam?

JOIN A STUDY GROUP. Also, make time to study. I invested a lot of personal time studying, and while I was taking the exam I was so relieved that I had put the effort into participating in the class and studying at home.

Now that you’ve earned your CPSM, what is your next big personal or professional goal?

Yet another benefit of the exam was in the reading material for the exam - I found a lot of proven techniques, plans and tools that have helped convince key leaders within my company to revisit the way that we do things in marketing. Ultimately, I want to change the way marketing is viewed as a whole in the A/E/C industry and help secure a place for marketing at the decision-making table within my firm.

Fun Fact About You / Hobby

My family and our animals bring me joy and keep me busy. My favorite place to unwind is at home. I read voraciously and I have a borderline-unhealthy addiction to coffee and Pinterest. The older I get, the more introverted I become. I am just a pretty happy person in general. Life is good.

Krystal Bybee, CPSM

Business Manager | The Rios Group

Why did you pursue CPSM certification?

As the Business Manager for my firm, I wear many hats.  One of these hats is marketing my firm’s services. When I learned there was an opportunity to become certified in professional services marketing, I looked at it as a chance to increase my knowledge based on information from the subject matter experts.

Did you participate in a CPSM study group? If so, what did you gain? If not, how did you study?

Yes. Our study group was a wonderful experience.  I learned so much from the group members sharing their experiences, as well as the in-depth discussions on reading assignments. It really did feel like I was participating in a Master Class for A/E/C Marketing. It was invaluable.

What would you recommend to anyone considering taking the exam?

Keep your eye on the prize.  There is a lot of reading.  It takes some discipline to get through it all, but in the end, you will grow in your profession, and as a leader in your firm. 

Now that you’ve earned your CPSM, what is your next big personal or professional goal?

As a life-long learner, I’m looking into the SHRM certification for Human Resources.

Fun Fact About You / Hobby

I really enjoy singing in a choir.  I’m thrilled that my daughters enjoy it just as much as I did, and I always look forward to attending their concerts and contests.