It is a fact that the global green building industry is growing year by year. Many professionals are entering the sustainability and green building industry in order to tap these booming green building career opportunities. Becoming an accredited professional who has got knowledge about green building standards is a big advantage while working with LEED or WELL certified building projects. For this, there are many different credentials available such as the LEED Green Associate, LEED AP with specialties and WELL AP, etc. With a presence in more than 150 countries, LEED continues to be the leader among green building rating systems. In addition to LEED, projects are also starting to utilize the WELL Building Standard which is one of the newest and only rating systems that address the health and well-being of occupants within buildings. WELL integrates performance thresholds after the design/prescriptive green building work has been completed. Additionally, behavior and human resource optimization for wellness are addressed in the Standard. WELL and LEED are complimentary building standards and do not compete with one another.
It is important to check which credential is right for you? Here is an article that will help you to make the right decision while choosing the LEED or WELL accreditation.
What’s Right for Me: LEED GA/LEED AP/WELL?
Difference Between LEED and WELL Credentials:
Recognized in more than 150 countries around the world, a LEED credential distinguishes building professionals who have in-depth knowledge of the LEED rating system, building codes and standards.
LEED Green Associate (GA) is the first step in establishing yourself as a serious green building professional whether you’re a student, a recent graduate or a professional. Created by the US Green Building Council (USGBC), the LEED Green Associate is the first of two tiers of professional green building accreditation. Sometimes referred to as “LEED GA”, LEED Green Associates have demonstrated knowledge of green building practices and standards related to the design, construction, usage and maintenance of buildings.
Once you’ve demonstrated your knowledge of green building practices by becoming a LEED Green Associate (GA) the next step is to become a LEED Accredited Professional, or ‘LEED AP’. This prestigious USGBC credential confirms your practical knowledge in a specific area of focus and dedication to the green building movement. Remember, LEED certifications are awarded to buildings and credentials are earned by individuals. Here are the five LEED AP credentials with specialties.
LEED AP Building Design + Construction (BD+C) is the best specialty for professionals with expertise in the design and construction phases of green buildings, serving the commercial, residential, education and healthcare sectors.
LEED AP Operations + Maintenance (O+M) is recommended for professionals implementing sustainable practices, improving performance, heightening efficiency and reducing environmental impact in existing buildings through enhanced operations and maintenance.
LEED AP Interior Design + Construction (ID+C) is the preferred specialty for participants in the design, construction and improvement of commercial interiors and tenant spaces that offer a healthy, sustainable and productive work environment.
LEED AP Neighborhood Development (ND) serves individuals participating in the planning, design and development of walkable, neighborhoods and communities.
A WELL AP credential distinguishes professionals who have in-depth knowledge of the WELL Building Standard, building codes and standards in the sustainability industry. The WELL Building Standard is an evidence-based system for measuring, certifying, and monitoring the performance of building features that impact health and well-being. WELL builds on LEED. It starts where LEED left off. At their core, LEED and WELL both come down to improving health through the built environment. With LEED it is the health of the planet and for WELL it is the health of people and it is the main difference between LEED and WELL AP.
Our WELL Exam preparation study guide will help you pass the exam in the first attempt.
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