After earning my Bachelor’s in Business Management and an Undergraduate Certificate in Business & Environmental Sustainability, I thought my days of late-night study sessions and lunch-break paper writing were behind me. I was convinced I'd never go back to school. But here I am, pursuing my Certified Automotive Fleet Manager (CAFM) certification, which feels a lot like being back in school.

I completed most of my degree through online courses and independent studies, back before it became the norm. Perhaps that's why this experience feels so familiar. Having recently passed my first test, I'm only 1/8th of the way there, but I hope some of the lessons I've learned so far will help other CAFM candidates or those considering the program.

When deciding where to begin, I chose Fuel Management. Some might consider this an odd choice, but I felt comfortable with it. Starting with a subject where I had a solid base knowledge helped boost my confidence and prevented me from feeling lost. There's no rule that you must follow a specific order, so feel free to hop around if that works best for you.

Fleet Manager Study Tips for CAFM Success

Here’s what works best for me when studying for the CAFM:

• Set a dedicated study time: Turn off notifications, close Teams and Outlook, and just dive in. I can't stand complete silence, so I play a lo-fi playlist while reading.

• Engage with the material: I start by reading through the content with the study guide nearby to direct my focus. Then, I ensure I can answer all the study guide questions, making notes of anything else that seems important. Subsequent study sessions involve reviewing my notes thoroughly.

• Utilize bootcamp recordings: These are great if you learn better through listening, but remember, they don't cover everything. I like to listen to them after reading, letting the information sink in as I work. Don't skip the practice questions at the end; make sure you can answer them confidently.

• Overcome test anxiety: I spent a lot of time staring at the test start button, agonizing over the "what ifs" of not passing. Sharing my concerns with my network, I learned that many respected professionals had failed their first test. This realization eased my nerves. Remember, failing a test doesn't diminish your worth or capabilities. Just take the test and give it your best shot. I won't say I passed by as much as I would’ve liked, but I did pass.

Next, I'll tackle Asset Management and look forward to sharing more about this process in the future. If you're nervous about the test, know that you're not alone! 

About the CAFM Program

The Certified Automotive Fleet Manager (CAFM) program, offered by the NAFA Fleet Management Association, is a comprehensive certification designed to validate expertise across all facets of fleet management. 

The curriculum encompasses eight core disciplines: Asset Management, Business Management, Financial Management, Information Management, Maintenance Management, Professional Development, Risk Management, and Vehicle Fuel Management. Candidates are required to pass an exam in each discipline within a three-year enrollment period to earn the CAFM designation. 

Earning the CAFM credential offers numerous advantages, including professional distinction, expanded career opportunities, and the skills to enhance your organization's fleet operations. The program is self-study and open to individuals with at least one year of experience in any fleet-related position. 

For more information or to enroll in the CAFM program, visit NAFA's official website.