Why CPAS Accreditation Matters: The Competitive Edge for Construction Professionals

Construction project managers from SCAL Member firms KTC and Kienta Engineering are gearing up for a more rewarding career path

"Success is the sum of small efforts repeated day in and day out." – Robert Collier 

Every project manager knows the unique pressure of delivering a construction project. It’s a balancing act—coordinating diverse teams, navigating stakeholder expectations, and making split-second decisions that can make or break a timeline. Adding to that, the growing demands for sustainability, tighter safety regulations, and rising client expectations, and you have a career that is both rewarding and relentless.

For Chua Gim Hock and Edwin Goh, seasoned project managers in Singapore’s construction industry, these challenges are all in a day’s work. But their journeys also demonstrate how the right tools and training can make the difference between treading water and thriving. Through their experiences with SCAL’s Construction Professional Accreditation Scheme (CPAS), they’ve found ways to navigate industry demands while setting themselves apart.

Gim Hock’s Approach - Resolving Disputes Under Pressure

For Chua Gim Hock, a Tier A CPAS-certified project manager at KTC Civil Engineering, continuous improvement has been a guiding principle throughout his career. With over a decade of experience, he's learned that the key to successful project management lies in staying calm under pressure and effectively handling conflicts.

"There’s always a need to improve and be more professional, especially with partnerships and collaboration between organisations," Gim Hock shared.

He noted that CPAS has been instrumental in enhancing his ability to manage construction conflicts and disputes. "CPAS has helped me handle construction conflicts and disputes, particularly understanding their impact," he explained. By applying the broad range of competencies covered in the CPAS program, he has been able to navigate challenging situations more effectively, earning the trust of his clients and the respect of his team.

Edwin’s Strategy - Building Trust Through Action

For Edwin Goh, a Senior Project Manager at Kienta Engineering and a Tier A CPAS-certified professional, project management is as much about people as it is about processes. "Most challenges aren’t technical; they’re about managing relationships," he explained.

Edwin recognises that the success of any project depends on his ability to communicate effectively with all stakeholders, from clients to subcontractors. He has noticed a growing trend where clients and consultants value CPAS accreditation, as it signals a level of professionalism and competence. He pointed out, "We’re starting to see CPAS become part of tender specifications, especially for government projects. It’s a trend driven by the need for professionalism, and getting accredited now means staying competitive."

Edwin also highlighted how his CPAS certification has given him an edge when presenting value engineering solutions to clients, helping him build trust and facilitate smoother project execution.

Finding Time to Grow: How Gim Hock and Edwin Do It

Amid tight schedules and pressing deadlines, how do project managers find time to grow professionally? For Gim Hock, it’s all about managing priorities. "You don’t manage time—you manage what matters most," he said. He makes it a point to schedule time for exercise, family, and professional development, knowing that balance is key to long-term success.

Edwin likened his career to a marathon: "You have to pace yourself, plan for breaks, and make room for learning. Professional growth isn’t something you fit in when you have time—it’s something you make time for."

Both project managers agree that CPAS was worth the investment. The structured accreditation process not only improved their technical skills but also gave them a fresh perspective on their roles. For Edwin, it provided the tools to navigate difficult conversations with clients and stakeholders, enhancing his confidence in high-pressure situations.

What SCAL’s CPAS Has Meant for Their Careers

Neither Gim Hock nor Edwin sees CPAS as just another credential. Instead, they view it as a gateway to broader opportunities and a way to build trust with clients and stakeholders. Gim Hock noted that his CPAS accreditation has opened doors to more projects. "It gives clients confidence. They see us as trusted advisors who can handle challenges effectively," he said.

Why These Project Managers See CPAS as the Future

Beyond individual benefits, CPAS plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of construction. By aligning with sustainability goals, productivity standards, and safety benchmarks, the programme equips professionals to lead projects that meet modern expectations.

Gim Hock believes this shift is crucial: "The future of construction demands greater collaboration and efficiency. CPAS ensures we’re ready for what’s next."

For Edwin, the journey doesn’t end with certification. He’s already looking ahead to the next tier of accreditation, viewing CPAS as a stepping stone to lifelong learning. "There’s no expiry date on knowledge," he said. "Every skill you gain adds value—not just to your career, but to the industry as a whole."

Closing the Gap, One Step at a Time

For project managers, CPAS offers more than just recognition—it provides a roadmap for overcoming challenges, building resilience, and creating lasting impact. Whether it’s navigating the complexities of a major project or earning the trust of demanding clients, CPAS equips professionals with the tools to thrive.

"If you’re serious about your career in construction, CPAS isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a must," Edwin concluded. His comments are aptly underscored by Gim Hock’s mantra, "The moment you stop learning is the moment you start dying."

So why wait? Start your CPAS journey today and take the first step toward shaping not just buildings, but a brighter future for yourself and the industry.

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