Skilled Trades Training Offered Through Construction Foundation

BIRMINGHAM, AL — The Construction Education Foundation of Alabama is now accepting applications to several training classes for a variety of skilled trades positions. CEFA is hosting basic, intermediate and advanced classes for workers interested in honing their skills and gaining jobs in commercial construction as electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, equipment operators or construction contractors.

Each specialized training class follows a curriculum developed by contractors within that field and includes a mix of classroom testing and hands-on training that is directly related to the skills they would need on the job.

“Participating in CEFA training gains you two incredibly valuable things: highly-specialized training and direct access to contractors who are ready to hire,” said CEFA President Byron McCain. “When a student completes the basic-level training class, they will have the credentials needed to land an entry-level position without the need for on-the-job experience. If they decide to pursue intermediate or advanced courses, that will make them even more attractive to recruiters and contractors.”

Enrollment in the basic, intermediate and advanced classes costs $500, and each course includes 80 hours of training. Training for electricians includes 150 hours. Classes meet in the evenings twice per week from January to March at CEFA’s Birmingham headquarters located at 6700 Oporto Madrid Boulevard, Birmingham, Alabama, 35206.

“The difference between employment in the construction industry compared to many other industries is that there is a clear pathway to advancement,” McCain said. “It’s like a ladder, and your growth opportunities will only continue in your career throughout the many steps that are along the way. At CEFA, we provide the training necessary for students to take that first step towards a construction career.”

Applications for CEFA training courses are available online. Applications can also be dropped off at the CEFA Birmingham headquarters at 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. daily.

“Alabama is in dire need of a skilled workforce. Improvements to the state’s infrastructure aren’t going to build themselves,” said Jason Phelps, executive director of the Alabama Construction Recruitment Institute. “By training dedicated individuals who are ready to take their careers to the next level in a skilled trade, CEFA is not only playing a vital part in the future of Alabama’s construction industry, but in the future of the state as a whole.”