New Training Curricula for Construction Industry Mentors and Workforce Development Professionals Words: Dan KamysSeptember 20, 2016 — In response to the growing demand for workforce development professionals and mentors, NCCER has released two new training programs developed by subject matter experts: Construction Workforce Development Professional and Mentoring for Craft Professionals. [caption id="attachment_13861" align="alignnone" width="350"] The new Construction Workforce Development Professional training guide from NCCER.[/caption] The Construction Workforce Development Professional program, the first of its kind in the construction industry, establishes a standard for the skills and knowledge a construction workforce development professional should possess. Topics in the curriculum include effective communication; managing craft training programs and registered apprenticeships; policies and ethics; workforce and instructor recruitment; financial management and budgeting; marketing, public relations and community outreach; and business plan development. Training module completions from the curriculum are recorded in NCCER's Registry System when the program is taught under an NCCER certified instructor at an accredited organization. The Construction Workforce Development Professional program also includes a certification for individuals who successfully complete a written assessment through an NCCER Accredited Assessment Center. To find an accredited training and/or assessment center, visit nccer.org/center-search.aspx. NCCER also released its Mentoring for Craft Professionals curriculum. The average age of today's craft professional lies between 48 and 52 years old, and 75 million baby boomers are approaching or already at retirement age. Thus, it is more important than ever for experienced craft professionals to pass along their knowledge to the younger generation. The Mentoring for Craft Professionals curriculum details the expectations and outcomes of a mentoring relationship, characteristics of effective mentors, phases of mentoring relationships, communication techniques, conflict resolution and elements of a formal mentoring program. After completing the training program, mentors will be able to determine the needs of trainees and how they learn best. For more information, visit www.nccer.org or contact NCCER customer service toll-free at (888) 622-3720.