About Community Association Management

Whether you're exploring the profession or looking to deepen your expertise, we have the resources to guide you through every step of the journey.

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The Role of a Community Manager

Community managers are professionals who oversee the daily operations of community associations. Their work combines financial management, urban planning, facility maintenance, community development, volunteer coordination, and project management. Successful community managers have strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills that help support well-managed, thriving communities.

An Evolving and Expanding Profession

Community association management is a young and rapidly growing field. In 1970, about 10,000 community associations existed in the United States. By 2020, that number had increased to more than 350,000, representing homes for nearly 74 million residents. As common interest communities continue to grow as a leading segment of residential development, the demand for qualified community managers remains strong.

Community Association Living

Want to discover more about the profession? Download our comprehensive PDF to begin your journey in becoming a community manager.

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Resources in Spanish

Access a growing collection of CAI resources in Spanish, tailored for community association managers. Find courses, guides, and practical tools to support your daily work.

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Professional Development Opportunities

Unlock your potential and advance your career with industry‑leading professional development programs. Whether you're new to community association management or a seasoned professional, we offer flexible, high‑quality education designed to build expertise, strengthen leadership skills, and prepare you for the next step in your career.

  • Successful community management starts with the essentials! This comprehensive community association management course provides a practical overview for new managers, an essential review for veteran managers, and an advanced course for board members.
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  • This interactive online course discusses the nature of ethics and how it applies to community management.
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Manager Credentials at a Glance

Stand out in the community association management profession with CAI’s globally recognized manager credentials. Designed for every stage of your career, these designations validate your expertise, enhance your professional credibility, and open doors to new opportunities.

  • The second level in the career development track for community association managers. The AMS designation demonstrates a higher level of commitment to your career and the community association industry. An AMS designation is recommended for managers who want to enhance their career opportunities by increasing their knowledge and expertise.

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Job Market

Your one-stop career resource center to prepare you for your next opportunity.

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Additional Resources

Discover more CAI resources and member benefits to help you boost your career.

  • The Exchange

    The CAI Exchange is the destination for community association leaders to connect, grow, and learn from 50,000+ members and 3,000+ posts each month. Ask questions, get answers, and access community association resources 24/7.
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  • National Events

    CAI’s world-renowned events showcase the industry, create connections, and cover the latest information and trends in community associations. From our annual conference to more intimate and targeted workshops, our events provide exclusive opportunities to learn, network, and advance careers.
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  • Webinars

    CAI webinars offer professional training without leaving your home or office. Conducted online, these programs are hosted by industry experts to keep you up-to-date on legislative activity, management trends, industry best practices, and subjects of interest for community managers and homeowners.
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  • Advocacy

    CAI’s advocacy efforts are driven by and for its members. Explore legislative priorities, policy resources, and engagement opportunities that help protect the ability of community associations nationwide to govern effectively and responsibly.
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