NM Public Purchasing CPO Certification and Recertification Information


NM Chief Procurement Officer (CPO) Frequently Asked Questions

Below you will find answers to a number of common questions about the NM Mexico Chief Procurement Officer (CPO). If you have any other questions or concerns, please take a few moments to explore our NM EDGE website or contact us for more information.


Zoom Live Online Class Information

Please note that the NM EDGE will conduct all meetings and classes (when possible) using the Zoom videoconferencing platform.

  • You will need the following to participate in these live online Zoom classes:
  1. Access to the internet using a device/computer with a camera and microphone (most laptops, iPads or similar device have these).
  2. You will need to have a quiet spot from which to participate (no distractions in the background, please).
  3. You will take the pre and post-tests online, too, so be mindful of the screen size.
  4. You will be emailed information about Zoom “practice sessions” and we recommend that you attend one practice to learn how we plan to use zoom for these classes.
  5. The day before the classes you will be emailed a zoom link to access the class.
  6. Access to the pretest is open 15 minutes prior to the start of class. Pre-test and posttest links are provided in class. Materials are emailed after everyone has completed the pretest.
  7. If you are taking Public Purchasing Foundation Classes to earn your Chief Procurement Officer designation you will need to provide a photo ID for the final test on Friday. More info will be given during class.
  8. If you are taking recertification classes for Chief Procurement Officer (CPO), please login to your NM EDGE Student Record and double check your contact information including your mailing address, CPO number, and phone number (all are required in the report we provide to State Purchasing).
  9. If you do not feel you are able to participate in these classes with the requirements as specified, you may remove yourself from the classes by logging in to your student account and clicking remove.

Please contact us with questions or concerns by emailing nmedge@nmsu.edu. We are teleworking so calling our office will delay our response to you.

Thank you for your patience and understanding and for your ongoing commitment to Better Government through Education.

Sincerely,

Your NM EDGE Team


Important Message from State Purchasing!

Your CPO Certification expires EVERY two years and it is your responsibility to renew your certificate. Please take time to add this to your calendar and other devices to help remind you.

Per NM EDGE

  • Chief Procurement Officers are required to re-certify (“per § 13-1-95.2 (D) NMSA 1978”) every and within 2 years (based on the month of initial certification).
  • It is the responsibility of the CPO to re-certify before their current certification lapses.
  • NM EDGE offers Foundation and Recertification classes every quarter.

New Mexico Chief Procurement Officer (CPO) Certification and Recertification Process

To earn your CPO:

NM EDGE offers NM Public Purchasing Foundation Classes and Culminating Test (6 classes + test) on a quarterly basis (February, April, July and October) via Zoom-Live Online. Additional offerings may be added as demand warrants.

Upon successful completion of classes and a passing score of 60% on the culminating test, your name will be sent to State Purchasing from which your certification will be issued.

TO RECERTIFY

Recertification is required (per statute 13/1-95.2D) every 2 years (based on the month of initial certification).

Two Options for completing initial recertification classes:

  • NMPPA Conference Recertification Track (included in the cost of conference attendance) when available.
  • NM EDGE Recertification Classes (2 classes) offered quarterly (February, April, July and October) via Zoom - Live On-Line platform.

Continuing Recertification Classes:

  • 2nd Recertification - Two classes, via Zoom - Live On-line
  • 3rd Recertification - Two classes, via Zoom - Live On-line
  • 4th Recertification - Two classes, via Zoom - Live On-line

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What will I need to bring to the CPO Foundation Culminating Test? 

  • Photo ID required at test sign-in.
  • Bring your binder of materials. The test is open book.

If I am recertifying, will I need to take a separate test?

  • Successful completion of your in-class tests will satisfy the testing requirement for recertification.

If I am recertifying what do I need to do in advance of the classes?

  • Enroll in the appropriate recertification classes (we can help you determine which you need by calling (505) 224-4059 or emailing nmedge@nmsu.edu.
  • Update your student record in the NM EDGE Record and Enrollment site to include your CPO Number.

Contact State Purchasing for questions regarding the recertification guidelines Francine Wagner (505) 827-0468 . Contact NM EDGE regarding NM EDGE classes. (nmedge@nmsu.edu)