Survey links training with increased wages.

A national survey by BOMI Institute shows that property professionals with advanced industry training can earn an average of 22% more and manage an average of 14% more facility space than those without such training.

The Institute surveyed 1,770 students currently enrolled in its designation programs, as well as graduates holding one or more of the Institute's four designations: the Real Property Administrator (RPA), Facilities Management Administrator (FMA), Systems Maintenance Administrator (SMA), and Systems Maintenance Technician (SMT).

"For years, we've believed that advanced education gives a powerful boost to the careers of property professionals," said James C. Williams, RPA, CSM, chairman of BOMI Institute. "This survey is the first we've done to quantify the benefits of a professional designation.

Regarding salary, RPA graduates reported earning, on average, $69,407 per year, 28% more than RPA students. FMA graduates reported earning $69,341, 17% more than FMA students. SMA graduates earned $54,465 or 17% more than SMA students. And SMT graduates reported earning $48,233 per year, 26% more than SMT students.

Most designation holders also reported managing significantly more building space than students. RPA graduates managed, on average, 1.53 million SF or 21% more than RPA students. FMA graduates managed 1.50 million SF, 18% more than FMA students.

The survey also asked respondents' reasons for enrolling in designation programs. More than 83% cited professional development, followed by 63% who took courses for personal development. About 56% took the training because a professional designation is valued by their industry, while 12% said the designation is required by their employer.