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Construction Certifications

Construction Certifications: Which Ones To Get

 

Getting started in the blue collar world, in a construction industry; you may be wondering: do I need any certifications? The short answer is no. However, there are SOME certifications you can get that may help you land a job faster or be more of an employable asset. There are many construction certifications you can get that vary in price and time, that will help you on your journey. In this blog, we’ll go over the top ones we think you should invest your time and money in!

Construction Certifications:


  1. Commercial Drivers License: Class A CDL no auto restrictions.
  2. NCCCO: National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators
  3. 6G Weld Certification &/or CWI: Certified Weld Inspector
Let’s go over what these certifications are, why they’re important & how you can get these construction certifications to build a career in the blue collar/construction world!

Class A Commercial Drivers License

 

What is a Class A CDL? 

A Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with no auto restrictions is a type of commercial driver’s license that allows the holder to operate any combination of vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, where the towed vehicle has a GVWR exceeding 10,000 pounds. The absence of auto restrictions means the driver is qualified to operate vehicles with both automatic and manual transmissions.

 

Importance:
  • Versatility: Without the “E” restriction (which limits you to automatic transmission vehicles), you can drive a broader range of vehicles, including those with manual transmissions. This is particularly important because many commercial vehicles, such as tractor-trailers, often come equipped with manual transmissions.
  • Job Opportunities: Having no auto restrictions on your Class A CDL expands your job opportunities since many employers prefer or require drivers who can handle manual transmission vehicles. This can mean higher employability and potentially better pay or job roles.
  • Flexibility: In scenarios where you might need to switch between different types of vehicles, not having this restriction allows for more flexibility in your work.
How to Get One:
  1. Meet Basic Requirements:
    • You must be at least 18 years old to drive within your state (intrastate) and 21 to drive between states (interstate).
    • You need to have a valid driver’s license.
    • You must pass a medical examination approved by the Department of Transportation (DOT).
  2. Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP):
    • Apply for a CLP at your local DMV or equivalent agency. You’ll need to pass a series of knowledge tests on general CDL topics and specific endorsements if needed (like tanker, hazmat).
    • The CLP must be held for at least 14 days before you can proceed to the skills test.
  3. Pass the Skills Test in a Manual Transmission Vehicle:
    • The key to avoiding the auto restriction is to take your CDL skills test in a vehicle with a manual transmission. This test includes:
      • Pre-trip inspection: Checking the vehicle’s condition.
      • Basic vehicle control: Maneuvering the vehicle in a controlled environment.
      • On-road driving: Driving in traffic under various conditions.
    • If you pass this test using a manual transmission vehicle, you won’t receive the “E” restriction on your CDL.
  4. Additional Steps:
    • You might need to take additional tests for endorsements depending on what types of vehicles or cargo you plan to handle (e.g., H for hazardous materials, T for tank vehicles).
    • Ensure you meet any state-specific requirements, which might include additional training or testing.
  5. Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT):
    • Since February 7, 2022, new CDL applicants or those upgrading from Class B to Class A or adding certain endorsements for the first time must complete an FMCSA-approved training program.
Remember, the specifics can vary by state, so it’s crucial to check with your local DMV or equivalent licensing authority for exact requirements and any additional steps or costs involved.

NCCCO Mobile Crane Certification

 
What is a NCCCO Crane Cert?
This is a credential offered by the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) that validates a crane operator’s competence in safely operating mobile cranes. Its importance stems from enhancing workplace safety, ensuring compliance with OSHA regulations, and improving job prospects in the construction industry. This certification demonstrates that the operator has passed both a written exam, covering theoretical knowledge like crane setup and load dynamics, and a practical exam, testing hands-on skills in crane operation. Think how important cranes are & where they are used! Crane operators are always in high demand.

 

To obtain this certification, one must:
  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Meet physical fitness requirements.
  • Pass a written Core Exam which tests general crane operation knowledge.
  • Pass one or more Specialty Exams, depending on the type of mobile crane (e.g., Telescopic Boom, Lattice Boom).
  • Complete a practical exam demonstrating operational skills on the specific crane type.

 

Preparation involves studying NCCCO’s reference materials, participating in training programs, and taking practice tests. Certification is valid for five years, after which recertification is required. Various institutions offer training; for example, Crane Tech and American Crane School provide prep courses to help candidates pass both exams.

6G Weld Certification & CWI

 

A 6G weld certification is one of the most challenging welding tests, requiring a welder to join two pipes at a 45-degree angle using various welding techniques. It tests a welder’s skill in multiple positions, making it highly valued in industries like oil, gas, and construction. Being able to weld pipe, is a great skill to have and can take that skill to very important industries.

A Certified Weld Inspector (CWI) is a professional who inspects welds for quality and compliance with industry standards. CWIs ensure structural integrity and safety in welding projects. This is a good construction certification to have, companies need CWIs to make sure welds done from that company are compliant and will pass inspection!

Importance:
  • 6G certification proves a welder’s ability to work in complex positions, leading to higher pay and job opportunities.
  • CWIs help prevent structural failures, ensuring safety and quality in construction and manufacturing.
How to Become One:
  1. Get training from an accredited welding school.
  2. Gain welding experience (typically 4-5 years).
  3. Pass the 6G welding test.
  4. For CWI, meet AWS experience requirements and pass the exam.
Overall, these are a few excellent construction certifications to have, Yes, you’ll have to spend some time & money to get these certifications, but they will be worth your time & weight in gold. Across any industry, if you have these construction certifications, your ability to land a job and build a career in the blue collar world will be infinite. 
 

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