Palm Beach County’s Michael Gauger Achieves Master Code Professional Certification

The Master Code Professional (MCP™) is the highest level of designation the International Code Council offers. Thousands of individuals have received certifications from the Code Council, but only a small select number have attained this high level of achievement.

Michael Gauger, Building Division Coordinator and Interim Assistant Deputy of Inspections began his six-month journey toward the MCP designation as soon as he was approved for his first license in December of 2022.

See Related: Over 50 Master Code Professionals Named in 2023 

Gauger’s Master Code Professional Six-Month Journey

Once Gauger took his Code Council commercial building inspector test, he became determined to reach the highest level of designation that only one other person in his division had achieved: his mentor Doug Wise.

Building Official Doug Wise introduced Gauger to the Code Council and this particular career path and set of certifications. “Doug gave me the opportunity to attend the Code Council’s 2022 Annual Business Meeting in Louisville, Kentucky, where I witnessed the strong bond among attendees,” Gauger said. “I knew I wanted to be part somehow, so when I returned home, I researched Code Council tests and certifications.”

That process took a little over six months to receive 35 certification requirements. Gauger devoted free time before and after work, in addition to weekends and holidays, to studying for the many Code Council exams.

Gauger is one of Florida’s newest MCPs. Only one percent of trade workers, under a thousand people worldwide, reach that status. “We are proud of this and many other valuable accreditations Michael has acquired since joining the Planning, Zoning and Building Department,” said Interim Department Executive Director Whitney Carroll. “We recognize the importance of obtaining such credentials.”

“My father worked at the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s office for 50 years,” said Gauger. “So, growing up, I watched him make a difference by helping local communities.”

Code Administrator Mentorship and Camaraderie is Vital for Success

Doug Wise is one of those simpatico co-workers that Gauger seeks. “My building official Doug is the best code administration mentor,” he said. “I’m extremely fortunate to have learned alongside one of the most knowledgeable and experienced code professionals out there. He is always willing to explain and share details, no matter how busy he is.”

Wise feels similarly about Gauger, saying that “Michael’s commitment to excellence continues to be an invaluable asset. I commend him for his hard work and his dedication to the building safety industry.”

“The camaraderie among building safety professionals is one of the qualities that makes this industry so special,” Gauger added. “I love that it’s a community of people who are passionate about their work and dedicated to making our buildings safer for everyone.”

Milestone Inspection Compliance is Crucial to Anticipate and Prevent Tragedies

Gauger recalls Florida’s Surfside condo collapse in 2021. Following the tragedy that killed 98 people, the legislature passed laws requiring milestone inspections for condominiums and co-ops that are three stories or more to prevent a similar catastrophe.

“My peers and I are busy overseeing over 750 structures in unincorporated Palm Beach County to monitor for compliance, and to provide those reports to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation,” Gauger said.

In addition, he’s been talking with other Florida code administrators about creating a TechNation permit chapter.

Before his Building Division position, Gauger had worked as a state-certified building contractor, realtor, association manager and entrepreneur. Currently, Gauger works closely with his director and also interviews new candidates. During that process, he tells applicants “You’ll get out of the job what you put into it.”

Gauger oversees about 100 inspectors and administrative staff too. “I’d like to be able to create a way to streamline uniformity among the inspection and permit process across all municipalities and counties alike,” he said. “One of the most frustrating components I found as a building contractor was knowing that every inspector is looking at something different. I’m excited about working with like-minded individuals in creating and enforcing safer, more effective and consistent codes that can be internationally applied to buildings.”

Technical Advancements Will Aid Code Professionals’ Life-Saving Work

Michael Gauger is excited to see how the technical and digital future impacts the industry. “With tools like artificial intelligence, I hope that we can perfect the plan review process and catch errors prior to contractors implementing projects in the field,” he said.

Gauger notes that success in this industry, as well as in life, hinges on motivation, determination and integrity. He knows that providing excellent customer service to those on the other side of the counter could potentially save a person thousands of dollars, or even protect their health and welfare.

“It is satisfying to know that waking up every morning and coming to work, code professionals can potentially save lives,” Gauger said.

How to Become a Master Code Professional

Obtaining an MCP designation is considered to be the gold standard for demonstrating proficiency in the code profession. MCPs are typically responsible for all technical and management aspects of code enforcement with duties that range from the management of a code enforcement department to the supervision of inspectors and plan reviewers.

To become an MCP, a candidate must obtain 30 credits by passing Code Council examinations.

The credits are divided into two categories:

• Core examinations (20 credits)
• Elective examinations (10 credits)

Once achieved, an MCP must complete a total of 60 hours of Continuing Education Units (CEUs) every three years to remain in active status.

By becoming an MCP, you can increase earnings and advance your career. Learn more and apply for your MCP designation, here.