February 9, 2000
The Mechanical Contractors Association of Western Washington recently started a new project manager certification program to train people working in the plumbing and piping industry.
The program includes three levels of instruction, depending on students’ experience and education. Each is a year long, offering training in both technical and leadership skills. They are being taught by industry experts and professional instructors.
The inaugural class is a sell-out. Its 30 students range from company principals to project coordinators. They are enrolled in the "Fundamentals of Successful Project Management" program, which began last October. Those who successfully complete the 10-course program next December will receive the designation "Certified Mechanical Project Manager."
"This is a compilation of over two years of planning and development," said Jerry Bush of University Mechanical Contractors, the chair of the MCA Board of Education. "Course content and structure have been developed primarily based upon input from MCA members. The vision for this program is to promote excellence and attract quality people to our industry."
The next level of instruction, "Enhanced Skills for Experienced Project Manager," is scheduled to begin January 2001, followed by "Leadership and Strategic Management Skills for Senior Level Managers."
Students have been enthusiastic about the new learning experience. Said one: "I have learned more specific information pertaining to the mechanical industry in the first few classes of the MCA program that I did in six months of university project management prerequisites."
