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.

Ready to advance your career? Become a CAI member today.

Become a Member
Opens Video on the page

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.

Opportunities Knock

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

Download Now

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.

Access Now

CAI’s education programs provide the knowledge and training needed to build expertise and advance a career in community association management.

  • Classroom Course

    M-100: The Essentials of Community Association Management - Live Virtual

    November 5-6, 2026
    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.
    Learn More
  • Live Virtual Course

    M-205: Risk Management - Live Virtual Course Edition

    November 12-13, 2026
    ​​​​​​Learn how to protect your community and respond to emergencies. This course shows you how to prepare for your community’s future by identifying insurance risks and addressing critical issues.
    Learn More
  • Live Virtual Course

    M-206: Financial Management - Live Virtual Course Edition

    October 22-23, 2026
    Learn how to best manage your association’s money. This course gives you the tools to understand and apply the principles of financial management to your community association.
    Learn More
Browse Manager Education Programs

CAI provides unparalleled education and credentials to keep you sharp and competitive.

  • On-Demand Webinar

    Faculty Recertification - 25/26

  • Classroom Course

    M-310: (San Antonio, TX)

    October 14, 2026
    Learn how to run your business more successfully. This course helps you build the skills and knowledge to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of a community association management company.
  • Classroom Course

    M-204 Santa Barbara, CA - April 11-12, 2026

    April 11-12, 2026
    Learn how to avoid legal problems and gain cooperation when establishing guidelines. This course covers the legal basis of community rules, policies, and procedures.
Learn More About Professional Credentials

Additional Resources

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