As private work declines many contractors are looking at bidding on public work for the first time. A key component to qualify for public work is to be able to meet WashingtonState’s apprenticeship utilization requirement. A 2007 state law requires that on all state projects over $1 million 15% of the labor hours must be worked by state registered apprentices. Many cities, school districts and the Port of Seattle also include this requirement.
The Construction Industry Training Council’s apprenticeship division: Construction Apprenticeship Training Committees (CATC) is the open shop provider in WashingtonState. “CITC, with the support of ABC of Western Washington and ABC National, has fought for 20 years and spent a large amount in legal fees to make sure open shop contractors have access to state approved apprenticeship,” said Chapter President Kathleen Garrity. “Without it our contractors would not be eligible to bid on this work.”
“While participating in the CATC apprenticeship program is one reason to participate in training, it also makes very good dollar sense,” said Vice President/Education Dave Perrin. “It pays to train.” A 2008 Construction Industry Institute study of Canadian and U.S. contractors shows that there is between a $1.30 and $3.00 return on investment per dollar spent on training. That training resulted in:
1. Increased productivity and reduced “re-work”
2. Reduced absenteeism and turnover
3. Reduced OSHA recordables
Additionally, a 2006 review of Experience Modified Rates of construction trade association members showed that companies that trained had an EMR of .78 vs. a rate of .98 for companies that did not train.
For more information about the CATC apprenticeship program call (877) 428-0442 or visit the website at www.catc.org.