In our commitment to provide the best possible service and knowledge to our members, SWMLS team members pursue continuing education and other opportunities for growth. This year, all three SWMLS team members – Richard Gibbens, Adrian Reyes, and Kenna Benegas – have completed leading designations in the MLS industry.

All have completed the Working with Real Estate Data Business Module (RED-B) designation hosted by the Real Estate Standards Organization (RESO). This designation has been completed by only 115 MLS leaders in the industry. RESO’s RED-B course is the industry’s primer for understanding how data flows through the industry. The Business Module is the first section, designed for both nontechnical and technical professionals. It covers the organizations, rules, processes and technology systems that create the real estate data ecosystem.

Adrian and Kenna have also completed CMLX1, a designation provided by the Council of Multiple Listing Services. The purpose of the CMLX program is to produce certified MLS management specialists. CMLX1 recognizes professional competencies in MLS management skills and industry knowledge. It is both a mark of commitment for skill and knowledge acquisition and an important core competency benchmark within the MLS industry. To date, only 337 MLS professionals have completed this designation.

In addition to CMLX1, Richard completed CMLX2, which is the next step in the CMLX designation process. To earn CMLX2, designees must display mastery of core knowledge and skills, compliance with competency standards identified by professional peers, and must submit a white paper that advances the industry. There are thus far 166 CMLX2 graduates nationwide.

Finally, Adrian recently earned his Gold Standard Instructor (GSI) designation from the Real Estate Educators Association (REEA). This designation is designed to enhance instructor delivery and improve student learning by providing critical training for both new and current instructors. Only 172 instructors currently hold this designation.

Regardless of who members contact, they are in the capable hands of industry leaders who have proven their knowledge and competency through these designations. We will continue to pursue these opportunities for growth on the national stage to deliver world-class customer service to our members.