For Immediate Release
Tuesday, March 21, 2000
CONTACT: Dennis S. Day, 703-837-5310
Ernie Jones, 703-837-5316
AGC ENDORSES AIC CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
AGC is Only Organization to Offer AIC Accredited Classes Via the Internet
WASHINGTON -- Today, the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) announced the official endorsement of the American Institute of Constructors' (AIC) Constructor Certification Program (CPC). Although AIC certification is not required to participate in construction projects or for construction industry employment, contractors and subcontractors are increasingly asking employees to obtain AIC certification. Additionally, for those seeking first-time employment in the construction industry, many universities are requesting that construction students participate in the AIC program prior to graduation and a number of accredited higher-education construction programs are requiring faculty to have a CPC to teach.
An aspect of the AIC certification program includes meeting ongoing education requirements. To assist AIC with far-reaching education capabilities, AGC's online courses allow AIC Associate Constructors and Certified Professional Constructors to obtain those required continuing professional development credits via an Internet connection.
"AGC and AIC each have an appreciation for construction education and a long-standing relationship through AGC's Construction Education Committee. We both believe continuing education is a cornerstone of industry innovation and employee retention," said AGC President Ralph Johnson.
T. J. Ferrantella, vice-chair of AIC's Constructor Certification Commission added, "By endorsing Constructor Certification, AGC makes a strong statement about its commitment to professional standards in the construction industry. We are thrilled to have AGC as an active partner in AIC's certification program."
In addition to the certification endorsement, AGC and AIC have both appointed workgroups to explore other avenues of cooperation that will mutually benefit the industry as well as each organization.
Formed in 1971, AIC began certifying constructors in 1996 through its Constructor Certification Commission with examinations and independent verification of experience and education. It currently offers an internationally recognized certification process that is peer-developed and intended to set high standards for skills, knowledge, education and conduct for the certified constructor.
AGC's Online Institute was developed to provide a quality distance-learning education alternative to classroom instruction. The Construction Education Committee of AGC initiated the idea and first went online with four project manager training classes in March 1999. The system is interactive, easily modified and readily accessible for busy constructors.
The Associated General Contractors of America is the largest and oldest national construction trade association, founded in 1918. AGC represents more than 33,000 firms, including 7,500 of America's leading general contractors, and 12,000 specialty-contracting firms. Over 14,000 service providers and suppliers are also associated with AGC, through a nationwide network of chapters. Visit the AGC website at www.agc.org.
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