NASA FAC-P/PM Certification Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the role of NASA’s Academy of Program/Project & Engineering Leadership (APPEL)?

The FAC-P/PM program is a center-specific program. APPEL KS supports the Center POCs by assisting with the tracking and certification/recertification of program participants. The NASA Acquisition Career Manager (ACM) oversees the program for the agency.

Who is currently considered for NASA FAC-P/PM certification?

The criterion to be certified is determined by the nature of the position an individual holds within the agency: a candidate needs to hold a position whose responsibilities are to manage a major acquisition program or project of $250 million or more, or meet the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-11 criteria for IT. FAC-P/PM certification is not based on tenure or learning experience – although those factors do come into consideration should a person’s position be identified and reviewed for certification.

I held FAC-P/PM for another agency, does it transfer to NASA?

Not at this time. The FAC-P/PM designation from other agencies is not transferable to NASA.

What is the term of certification?

The credential term is two years. To maintain the credential, a FAC-P/PM program participant must accrue 80 Continuous Learning Points (CLPs) and report them, typically through SATERN, to the agency within their two year period.

What if I’m in the NASA Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO)?

OCIO has a set of standards that are somewhat different as IT projects do not typically meet the $250 million threshold. OCIO specific FAC-P/PM certifications would again be determined based on the project(s) that are being managed, and the determined need for the PM to be certified. (Generally, IT program managers assigned to programs considered major acquisitions as defined by Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-11 meets the criteria for FAC-P/PM senior level certification.)