ABC-VA Summer Construction Core Training Program

Associated Builders & Contractors – Virginia Chapter (“ABC-VA”) currently works with the Technical Centers in Richmond, Henrico, Chesterfield, Hanover, and Powhatan through our “School-to-Work” partnerships whereby students enrolled in construction trade programs are earning industry credentialing credits toward graduation, and specific trades are also earning one year of apprenticeship-related instruction.  Many of these students go to work for ABC-VA member companies and continue their education through our apprenticeship programs.

The Core Training Program contains the following topics:

Basic Safety 

Presents basic jobsite safety information to prepare workers for the construction environment. Describes the common causes of workplace incidents and accidents and how to avoid them. Introduces common PPE, including equipment required for work at height, and its proper use. Information related to safety in several specific environments, including welding areas and confined spaces, is also provided.

Introduction to Construction Math 

Reviews basic math skills related to the construction trades and demonstrates how they apply to the trades. Covers multiple systems of measurement, decimals, fractions, and basic geometry.

Introduction to Hand Tools 

Introduces common hand tools used in a variety of construction crafts. Identifies tools and how to safely use them. Proper hand tool maintenance is also presented.

 Introduction to Power Tools 

Identifies and describes the operation of many power tools common in the construction environment. Provides instruction on proper use, as well as on safe-handling guidelines and basic maintenance.

 Introduction to Construction Drawings 

Introduces the basic elements of construction drawings. The common components of drawings are presented, as well as the most common drawing types. The use of drawing scales and how to measure drawings is also covered.

 Introduction to Basic Rigging 

Provides basic information related to rigging and rigging hardware, such as slings, rigging hitches, and hoists. Emphasizes safe working habits in the vicinity of rigging operations.

 Basic Communication Skills 

Provides good techniques for effective communication on the job. Includes examples that emphasize the importance of both written and verbal communication skills. Describes the importance of reading skills in the construction industry and covers proper techniques to use in a variety of different written communication formats.

 Basic Employability Skills 

Describes the opportunities offered by the construction trades. Discusses critical thinking and essential problem-solving skills for the construction industry. Also identifies and discusses positive social skills and their value in the workplace.

 Introduction to Material Handling 

Describes the hazards associated with handling materials and provides techniques to avoid both injury and property damage. Common material-handling equipment is also introduced.

OSHA 10-Hour Certification

First Aid, CPR & AED Certification

The Core Training Program is the standard beginning program for any construction trade and provides entry-level education and experience for the industry.

In addition to the above-listed classroom instruction, students will work in our construction lab and will tour various jobsites in and around the Richmond area to get a good picture of what careers are available.  At the end of the Program, students will have an opportunity to interview with ABC-VA member companies for employment.

The Program is scheduled to run as a true industry-ready program.  There will be approximately 100 hours of classroom/lab instruction.  Classes will meet from 8 a.m. to Noon, Monday – Friday, during the months of July and August (specific dates TBD).  Students will also take random drug tests throughout the course of the Program.

The program has  30 openings for the Summer 2018 Program.  There is no cost to enroll/attend, but the program is limited to students who have an interest in the construction industry.  The cost of this program is being paid for by ABC-VA member companies as an investment in the industry’s future.  Please contact Christine Ciarlo (Training Coordinator) or Darlene Hart (Member Service & Education Director) to receive additional information.  ( 804-346-4222.)