What is it? The IBEW is currently developing a series of twelve 2 hour courses, or modules, that are designed for either the Journeyman who is considering becoming a Foreman or existing Foremen that are looking to develop or improve skills. These courses are not currently scheduled. These classes were last offered in June 2011.
Why is it important? When polled, contractors listed a shortage of qualified Foremen as the number one reason they were unable to expand. Providing well trained Foremen to the contractors we hope will allow them to secure more projects and create more employment opportunities for our members.
How are these courses different? These modules are delivered in short (approximately 2 hour) sessions and contain activities that give that participants an opportunity to experience job relevent skills required of today's Foremen.
What do the modules cost? Currently they are offered at no cost to the member, we only ask that if you are scheduled to participate in a module that you attend every scheduled class. Failure to attend will prevent another Brother or Sister from participating.
Which classes can I sign up for? Participants may sign up for all of the classes or only those that interest them. The only requirement is that the participant MUST take the Role of the Foreman module BEFORE taking any others.
Role of the Foreman -This module is a prerequisite to all other modules and offers a look into what to expect and is expected of a Foreman.
Project Start-Up -Covers Scope Letter, Contract, Specifications, Submittals, etc.
Labor Relations -Presents methods for dealing with performance issues, discuss the role of the Job Steward and take a look at the Agreement.
The Foreman's Role in Jobsite Safety -Not a rehash of an OSHA-10 class or NFPA 70E, this class discusses ways to change the mindset and values of those working in our crew so that everyone goes home safely at the end of the day.
Understanding the Estimate -What do those numbers mean and what is involved with the bidding process?
Manloading and Scheduling -Take a General Contractors schedule and plug in the hours estimated by the Electrical Contractor to determine how many workers are needed at a given point in the project. Learn how to smooth out the peaks by using pre-fabrication, etc.
Material Management -Look at techniques for organization, scheduling, ordering and costs associated with handling material on the jobsite.
Communication -A necessary skill to develop, whether dealing with a customer, project manager, or your crew.
Documentation -Hands on activities teach participants about the importance of those documents used on the jobsite and what should be documented.
Change Management -Review RFI's, ASI's and Field Authorizations, their implementation and importance.
Managing Productivity -Look at objective ways to assess the work that is being performed on your jobsite.
Project Close-Out -Just as important as getting the job off on the right foot, follow many of the steps required to bring the job to a close properly.
Tying It All Together -This course is for those that have attended all twelve classes.
How many have attended the courses? To date, there have been 200 individuals that have taken a total of 1015 classes.
