Construction Academy

Ohio Business Development Center (OBDC) Construction Academy Receives Strong Backing from Franklin County Commissioners

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The Ohio Business Development Center (OBDC) is pleased to announce that the Franklin County Commissioners and Office of Diversity Equity and Inclusion have pledged their support to the OBDC Construction Academy. This collaboration aims to enhance the business skills of small and minority-owned businesses, empowering them to thrive in the construction industry. With a grant from the County, the OBDC Construction Academy will offer a 10-week business series focusing on essential topics such as blueprint reading, estimating, safety protocols, understanding contracts, and mechanic liens.

“The OBDC Construction Academy is dedicated to fostering the growth and success of small and minority-owned businesses throughout our community,” said Ronda Watson Barber, OBDC CEO/President. “Recognizing the unique challenges these entrepreneurs face, the Academy is committed to equipping them with the knowledge and expertise required to navigate the competitive landscape of the construction industry. This partnership with the Franklin County Commissioners exemplifies their  commitment to fostering diversity, economic growth, and inclusive opportunities.”

The 10-week business series offered by the OBDC Construction Academy will provide participants with invaluable skills and insights necessary for their success. Led by industry experts, these sessions will cover crucial aspects such as blueprint reading, enabling participants to understand and interpret construction plans effectively. Additionally, the Academy will focus on estimating techniques, ensuring accurate evaluation of project costs and the ability to create competitive bids.

The Ohio Business Development Center and the Franklin County Commissioners firmly believe that supporting the OBDC Construction Academy will yield significant benefits for the community. By investing in the business skills of small and minority-owned businesses, we can stimulate economic growth, foster job creation, and promote a more inclusive and prosperous construction industry.

We express our heartfelt appreciation to the Franklin County Commissioners for their unwavering support, and we encourage all eligible businesses to take advantage of this incredible opportunity. Together, we will forge a brighter future for small and minority-owned businesses in Franklin County.

For further information about the OBDC Construction Academy and how to participate in the 10-week business series, please visit the OBDC website at OHBDC.org

Thanks, James Jones, for mentoring contractors at the OBDC Construction Academy – Basic Estimating

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The first training session of the OBDC Construction Academy was held on May 24 at the Columbus Library.  Contractors, who are members of the OBDC Planroom, received valuable instruction on estimating a construction project from industry expert James Jones, owner of HCI Inspectors.  The class got one-on-one attention and tips on how to get the “right number” to bid on a project.

James provided his contact information and encouraged the class to keep in touch.

For more information on the OBDC Construction Academy visit OHBDC.org

OBDC Construction Academy – Basic Estimating (May 24)

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Got your ticket for the May 24 OBDC Basic Estimating Class?  James Jones, an industry expert, will provide insight and tips on how to get “the right numbers” for your next project.  The class is open to OBDC Planroom members only.  Tickets are available at OHBDC.eventbrite.com Membership information is online at https://ohbdc.org/obdc-planroom/obdc-planroom-membership/

Registration is open for the 2023 Winter OBDC Construction Academy

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Registration is open for the 2023 Winter OBDC Construction Academy.  The 10-week class is designed to enhance the skills of area construction contractors and suppliers.  Experts from local construction companies will provide best practices and tips. 

The first session will begin on January 10.  Representatives from Smoot Construction, Elford, Inc., Gilbane Building Company, the City of Columbus, and Columbus  City Schools will discuss how to be a good subcontractor/supplier and establish relationships.  

Course offerings include: estimating, basic blueprint reading, contracts, accounting, and bonding/insurance.

Registration is online at OHBDC.org.

Funding for the program comes from the Franklin County Board of Commissioners. The OBDC Construction Academy is sponsored by the City of Columbus Dept. of Finance and Management and the Office of Diversity and Inclusion.