New Session Set For Louisiana Small Contractors Program

BATON ROUGE, La. — Louisiana’s innovative program to help small construction companies build a solid foundation for business growth and success is returning in February. Enrollment has begun for the next Louisiana Contractors Accreditation Institute, through the Louisiana Community and Technical College System. The program assists small and emerging construction companies in learning the basics of the industry and preparing for the business and law portion of the state’s licensing exam for contractors.

Via a six-week course conducted throughout the state, the institute offers critical information about construction management. The course is open to construction-based Louisiana businesses and anyone with an interest in starting one. The program is sponsored by Louisiana Economic Development; the Louisiana Community and Technical College System, or LCTCS; and the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors.

“Our agency and resource partners continue to provide vital information to the participants of LCAI, which allows access to opportunities in Louisiana’s growing construction industry,” LED Secretary Don Pierson said. “This program helps emerging construction professionals sharpen the basic skills needed to sustain and grow their businesses and to prepare for the state licensing exam for contractors. When small businesses thrive, our economy grows and job creation increases, making a stronger Louisiana.”

The six-week course will be offered Feb. 19 to March 28, on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6 to 8 p.m. The course will be offered via interactive distance-learning to multiple locations throughout Louisiana.

The course is taught by industry leaders. Session topics will include:

• Bid process
• Contract management
• Estimating
• Equipment management
• Scheduling
• Occupational safety
• Risk management
• Financial and business management
• Bonding and access to capital
• Certifications and available resources
• Entrepreneurship training

Enrollment in the six-week Louisiana Contractors Accreditation Institute program is available on a first-come, first-served basis, with a $200 fee for the course and materials.

A video testimonial from a former participant can be viewed at http://bit.ly/LEDSmallBusinessLCAI. For more information, contact Cory Morgan at 225.342.4317 or cory.morgan3@la.gov or Catherine Barber at 985.448.5916 or catherine.barber@fletcher.edu. To register, visit www.OpportunityLouisiana.com/LCAI and click on “Next Steps” button.