“Getting your NKBA certification is a ‘no-brainer’,” says master builder Karl Champley, AKBD. “You will not only be better educated, you will also have an amazing association behind you for the ride.”

Certification from the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) makes an immediate impression on prospective customers and employers. When homeowners or building professionals hire a certified designer, they are hiring a premier expert in the art of designing beautiful, safe and functional kitchens and bathrooms.

Two of our NKBA K+B Insiders, Champley and Jennifer Bertrand, AKBD, of Jennifer Bertrand, LLC, recently chose to become certified through NKBA. We talk to them about exam prep, the testing process and what motivated them to take it to the next level.

NKBA: How did you prepare for the exam?

​Jennifer: I found the NKBA Flashcards app very helpful. It’s easy to fit into our busy designer lives!​ I also think it’s good to create a study schedule and set goals.

Karl: I also used the NKBA Exam Prep app. It’s a great tool to test your knowledge. I’m also fortunate to have 32 years of experience as a general contractor and consultant, so it would be a little embarrassing if I didn’t pass the test.

NKBA: What did you think about the testing process?

​Jennifer: As you take the test, you’re always amazed by how much you know​. It’s a multiple-choice test and it takes a few hours to complete. It was a challenge, but a fun challenge. With the similarity of some of the answers, you really need to know your stuff to determine the correct one. But as long as you’re prepared, you should do fine.

Karl: It’s essential to study–you will be asked questions about every aspect of our industry. The similarity of some of the questions made it difficult. Slight variations make all difference. Don’t just try to remember the answers, think about the common sense behind it and the real-world applications.

NKBA: You’ve both already achieved success in your field. Why did you decide to pursue certification?

Jennifer: Initially I asked myself, ‘Why do I need to be certified? I’m doing great.’ But as I learned more about the process and the standards it represents, I realized I wanted to pursue this. It gives me an edge if I am up for a job against a designer who isn’t certified. I know this will help tip the scales in my favor. And I’m not done yet! I plan to continue to the next level of NKBA certification.

Karl: More credibility and education as a contractor and designer is never a bad thing!

NKBA: How do you think it will help your business?

​Jennifer: I love the integrity that getting certified adds to my kitchen and bath design work. It also allows me to network with other designers who believe in the industry the same way I do.

Karl: It’s another tool to advance your skills and grow your success. That is powerful and incredibly supportive for your career. You’ll also have the backing of the NKBA, an association run with expertise, pride and passion.

Thinking of taking the AKBD exam? Here are some tools to ensure your success:

  • You’ll want to check out the books available in our Professional Resource Library before taking the exam. These nine volumes contain everything you need to know to pass the NKBA certification exams.
  • Enroll in the AKBD exam prep course which runs from April 4 to May 4. Using a combination of live webinars and recorded material, this class reviews the knowledge and skills required of a certified professional.
  • Get our Certification Study Guide, which provides an examination overview, study tips and practice exams to help prepare for the AKBD and CKBD exams.
  • The NKBA Exam Prep Flashcards app, mentioned above, is available at the App Store, GooglePlay and Amazon.

    • For more about certification requirements, check us out here, and take your first step toward certification today.