“In Their Own Words” commemorates the 20^th anniversary of the CMCA credential.  We’ll hear from CMCAs who’ve reached important milestones this year:  their 10^th, 15^thand 20^th anniversary of earning and retaining the Essential Credential. It’s a snapshot of who we are as a community and a glimpse into how some CMCAs entered the profession, what they love about their work and some of the challenges they face.

By Stephanie Durner, CMCA, AMS

Stephanie is the Director of Community Management at River Landing, a private gated golf course community in Wallace, NC.  She has held and retained the CMCA credential for 10 years.

Becoming a community association manager was a big career change for me.  I spent 20 years in television working as an anchor, reporter and producer, primarily covering NASCAR racing.  I quickly discovered when I got married and had children that a schedule which involved racing more than 36 weekends per year was not very conducive to family life. When my husband had a business opportunity near his hometown and away from the heart of NASCAR, I decided it was time to follow a different path.

During my time in NASCAR I had been serving as a volunteer representative for my community association near Charlotte, NC. When my family moved, that experience led me to apply for a job with River Landing. I found my background and skills in communications really helped and supported my role as a community association manager. But as a newcomer to the industry, I still had a lot to learn.

I joined CAI and took advantage of all of their resources. I quickly decided to earn the CMCA credential as it’s a critical element of the profession. Earning the credential 10 years ago helped launch my career but it continues to help me today.  Like the TV industry – things move very quickly and change is inevitable. I love taking advantage of the CECs offered and I utilize the wealth of other resources available on a regular basis.  Whether I’m tapping into the network of peers, participating in an industry event or reading a new research study – I feel I’ve got the support system needed to enhance my role as a strong CMCA.

Homeowners benefit every day from the work we do. Whether it’s managing daily operations and budgets to ensure things are operating smoothly, to troubleshooting a water, sewer or architectural issue, or coordinating a wildlife seminar to help our homeowners co-exist with nature in this rural community, we touch all aspects of their lives. It’s very satisfying to see the work I do appreciated and to see my commitment to my career, demonstrated by the CMCA credential, recognized. I know this is a career that, with the resources available through both CAI and CAMICB, I’m well trained to do.