Congrats to our newest CPSM, Ana Sanchez!
Posted on May. 5, 2026 / Member Spotlight / Subscribe 0
Congratulations to our newest CPSM, Ana Sanchez!
This spring, we’re celebrating one of our newest CPSMs in the SMPS DC Chapter! Congratulations to Ana Sanchez, CPSM, for earning this milestone through commitment, discipline, and a clear passion for elevating our profession.
The CPSM is the highest credential in AEC marketing, recognizing individuals who meet a rigorous standard of expertise and demonstrate comprehensive knowledge across all related disciplines.
Read more about Ana’s CPSM journey:
What motivated you to pursue the CPSM, and what does earning it mean for your career in the AEC industry?
I was motivated to pursue the CPSM to deepen my understanding of the AEC industry and show my commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. Entering my sixth year in the industry, I felt ready to deepen my understanding of how marketing, business development, and firm management work together to win work and drive growth.
Earning my CPSM represents a major milestone in my career. The process challenged me to think more holistically about our industry, from research to management, and gave me a stronger foundation to contribute to a higher level within my firm.
How has being part of SMPS or your local chapter supported your professional growth leading up to the CPSM?
Being part of the SMPS DC Chapter played a huge role in my journey to earning the CPSM. The chapter is filled with incredibly talented and driven professionals who are passionate about the AEC industry, and being surrounded by that environment was both motivating and inspiring.
Through SMPS, I gained access to mentorship, educational resources, and a strong professional network. One of the most valuable aspects was learning from others who had already gone through the process. Their encouragement and willingness to share advice made the path feel much more achievable.
What advice would you share with other SMPS members who are considering the CPSM path?
My biggest advice is: go for it!
The CPSM process exposes you to all six domains of AEC marketing, many of which go beyond your day-to-day responsibilities. For me, it deepened my appreciation for areas that my coworkers and leadership handle, giving me a much better understanding of how everything connects within the firm.
I would also recommend leaning into your SMPS network. Study groups, bootcamps, and conversations with others pursuing the certification make a huge difference. And most importantly, don’t be discouraged; it’s a challenging process, but it’s absolutely worth it!
Ana Sanchez, CPSM, is a Senior Proposal Coordinator at GPI / Greenman-Pedersen, Inc., and a member of the SMPS DC Communications Committee.
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