Nov. 23, 2009

WVU Parkersburg's WCE to offer Intro to Construction Technology Fast Track program.

CONTACT:   Tom Lemon, director of technical programs, 304-424-8276.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

West Virginia University at Parkersburg's Workforce and Community Education Division is offering a program to provide prospective job seekers with an introduction to the construction trade.

The Introduction to Construction Technology program is designed to provide entry-level skills for students interested in pursuing a career in the construction industry.  Students who complete the Fast Track program will earn an OSHA 10-hour construction safety certification in addition to a WVU Parkersburg Fast Track certificate.  

The program consists of a combination of classroom, business and technical training in addition to practical application in the form of hands-on practice, noted Tom Lemon, director of technical programs.  Classes will meet from 5 to 9 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays, Jan. 4 through March 8, 2010.

Lemon said the curriculum includes safety training and current building techniques, including sustainable building practices.  Instruction will be provided by professionals in the construction industry, including managers and owners of local construction companies.

Topics will include: career opportunities in construction; construction materials and methods; teamwork and communication; construction safety; basic computer skills; construction math; plan reading and layout, and sustainable building practices.

The construction industry provides extensive career opportunities, Lemon noted. 

"This industry offers good wages and endless growth opportunities from laborer to construction management to business owner," he said.  "Construction industries include residential, municipal, commercial, industrial, specialty, historical restoration and infrastructure.  Construction work may include new developments, additions, alterations, restorations, and maintenance." 

Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive National Center for Construction Education and Research certificates, wallet cards, transcripts, and inclusion in the NCCER national registry which allows employers to access student training records for verification.

Fast Track training programs provide participants access to quick, convenient training that represent the job areas that are currently in demand in West Virginia. The programs are delivered in 90 calendar days or less.  The Fast Track program is a statewide initiative of the Community and Technical College System of West Virginia.  Financial assistance may be available to those who qualify. 

Further information is available by contacting Lemon, 304-424-8276 or Tom.Lemon@mail.wvu.edu .

cd11/23/09

For additional information, contact:
Connie Dziagwa
WVU Parkersburg
Executive Director
Institutional Advancement
(304-424-8203 - Office)
E-mail

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