The OBDC Construction Academy celebrated contractors and local organizations participating in Fall 2022 and Winter 2023 business training courses. The Franklin County Board of Commissioners Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion hosted a graduation ceremony. County Administrator Ken Wilson provided remarks. OBDC assisted over 40 Black and small contractors in developing better business skills. They received instruction and mentorship from local general construction companies Elford, Ascension Construction Solutions, HC Inspections, HH&M Masonry, and Smoot Construction.
Class topics included: estimating, how to read blueprints, understanding the specification book, scheduling, bonding, legal contracts, and accounting.
Local entrepreneurs Attorney Ambrose Moses, Wanda Curry-Shephard, and Nicole Simpson provide information on legal issues, accounting, and insurance.
Terri Wise, with Columbus City Schools; Marliese Ryan, Gilbane Building Company; Cathy Holloway, HH&M Masonry; and Damita Brown, National Church Residences, are advisory board members.
The next session of the OBDC Construction Academy will begin on May 24. Registration is online at OHBDC.org