TCC and NAWIC Want You to Build Your Future

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (February 1, 2008) - Starting in April, new courses in construction will be offered by the Division of Economic and Workforce Development (EWD) at Tallahassee Community College. Since construction employs more people than any other industry in the U.S., TCC wants to make the finest certificate programs more widely available.

To accomplish this goal, TCC has partnered with the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). NAWIC has developed a curriculum that incorporates the latest technological changes of a fast-changing industry. The Association has also advanced the cause of women in construction, in careers ranging from business ownership to the skilled trades.

"Unfortunately, people tend to think of the construction trades as being dirty work," said Rick Frazier, Director of Special Projects at EWD, "but in reality, there are numerous professional careers in the construction industry. The partnership between TCC and NAWIC is helping people build the foundation for those professional opportunities."

Two courses are offered and open to both women and men. The Construction Industry Technician course covers contractual arrangements, forms of construction business ownership, documents and the construction process. By passing an exam after completing the course, students will receive an industry-recognized certificate. The Construction Document Specialist course focuses on interpreting the legal and architectural documents integral to the construction process.

The courses will be taught by licensed general contractors, said Irvine Leonard, coordinator of EWD's Construction and Industrial Technology Program.

"It's a very high-quality program because of the type of curriculum and the excellence of the instructors," said Leonard.

Construction employers would do well to enroll their support staff in the courses to upgrade their skills, said Sandra Y. Davis, Contract Administrator with the Leon County Schools and local NAWIC chapter member.

"One of the major resources that a firm can invest in is educating their employees," said Davis. "In my opinion, by investing in educational opportunities for employees, you will also benefit by their increased knowledge."

"Whether someone is currently employed in construction or interested in entering the industry," said Frazier, "these courses will add to their credentials and skills."