According to a 2017 report by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), construction trades are projected to be among the top ten most in demand jobs over the next decade. General construction, and associated “specialties” such as solar panel and alternative energy systems installers will continue to experience growth across the country, as well as here in Alabama.
If you’d like to ride that wave, you may be looking for a way into the field with an advantage? Education is always an advantage. To that end, the Associated General Contractors of Alabama (AGC) and the Construction Education Foundation of Alabama (CEFA) are joining forces for a new, free training program in construction trades. Funding is being provided through a grant from the Alabama Craft Training Board and AGC.
Starting February 7th, the free 10-month training program is for anyone who would like to begin a career in commercial construction. Students who complete the class will earn a certification from AGC and will be offered job placement assistance, if needed.
Certified instructors teach a curriculum approved by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) and AGC, focusing on the basics of hand tools and power tools, foundations, framing, drywall and other areas of building.
In addition to classroom instruction, part of the course will be on-line training at home. Once per week students must attend a lab class, held every Thursday evening from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Classes are scheduled to start on Feb. 7 and run through Dec. 5, in Oxford, Alabama.