Navigating the CAE Journey: Lessons, Challenges, and Support for Those on the Path

This article shares the insights of Carmen Lamb, SVP of YGS Association Solutions, and Craig Lauer, VP of Communications. They reflect on their recent experience earning the Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential from ASAE and how it has shaped their perspectives within YGS Association Solutions.

At YGS Association Solutions, we live and breathe associations. Our work is dedicated to helping them grow, communicate, and connect with their members in meaningful ways.

That’s why, over the past year, Carmen Lamb and Craig Lauer took on a new challenge: earning the Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential from ASAE. It was a demanding but rewarding experience—one that pushed them to think in new ways, sharpen their skills, and reinforce their understanding of association leadership.

It also gave them a fresh perspective on what association leaders experience every day, from strategic decision-making to governance challenges.

Why They Took on the CAE Challenge

The CAE is one of the most respected designations in the association industry, covering everything from membership engagement and financial management to organizational leadership and strategic governance.

For Carmen and Craig, the motivation wasn’t just about career advancement—it was about gaining a deeper understanding of the frameworks and best practices that drive association success.

“We’ve spent years supporting associations, but this was a chance to go even further—immersing ourselves in the methodologies and best practices that shape the industry,” Carmen said. She viewed the process as an opportunity to reinforce the principles she had already applied in her work while expanding her knowledge of the various departments within an association all working toward a common mission.

Craig echoed that sentiment, explaining that the CAE wasn’t about adding letters after their names. “It was about becoming even stronger partners for our clients—speaking their language, understanding their challenges at a deeper level, and helping them find solutions rooted in proven strategies.”

How They Balanced the CAE with Full-Time Work

Before they could even sit for the exam, Carmen and Craig had to earn additional professional development credits while prioritizing client work, deadlines, and leadership responsibilities.

They enrolled in a 15-week course led by an experienced CAE professional through the Michigan Society of Association Executives (MSAE), which helped keep them accountable but also required significant dedication.

Craig described the biggest challenge as carving out time in a very busy week to focus on studying. “That challenge was also an opportunity—it forced us to think strategically about associations in a way we don’t always have time for in the day-to-day.”

“The MSAE CAE prep course was rigorous, the exam itself was no joke, and there were plenty of late nights, early mornings, and weekends spent studying.”

—Carmen Lamb

What Stood Out Most: The Camaraderie

One of the biggest takeaways from the experience wasn’t just the knowledge—it was the support network.

Throughout the process, Carmen and Craig connected with others on the same journey, exchanging insights, sharing struggles, and offering encouragement.

“Studying felt less like a solo endeavor and more like a shared mission,” Craig said. “We weren’t just preparing for a test—we were learning from each other and strengthening our understanding together.”

That spirit of collaboration and support reminded Carmen of what makes associations thrive. “That kind of support is something we always aim to provide to our clients,” she said. “Associations succeed when they build strong communities, and we saw firsthand how valuable that network can be.”

How This Strengthens Their Work With Associations

Earning the CAE reinforced many of the principles Carmen and Craig already applied in their partnerships with associations—but it also provided new perspectives and tools for tackling complex challenges.

Carmen noted that the process reaffirmed YGS Association Solutions’ commitment to helping associations make strategic, informed decisions. “The CAE gave us fresh ways to think about governance, membership engagement, and strategic growth,” she said.

Craig added that the experience sharpened their ability to provide actionable, best-practice-driven guidance.

“The CAE didn’t change who we are, but it refined the way we approach our work. It’s given us deeper insight into the complexities of association leadership”

—Craig Lauer

At YGS Association Solutions, the commitment to ongoing learning and growth isn’t just for professional development—it’s about strengthening the expertise they bring to the associations they serve.

If You’re Considering This Journey, Let’s Talk

Carmen and Craig know firsthand how challenging—but rewarding—the CAE process can be. They also know how valuable it is to have support from those who’ve been through it. If you’re considering the CAE, actively studying, or simply curious about the experience, they’d love to connect.

Reach out to [email protected] or [email protected]—they’re happy to share their insights, compare notes, and offer encouragement.