CIS Offers WIOA-Approved Crane & Rigging Certification Program
Crane Industry Services, LLC (CIS) has established an introductory crane, rigging, safety and operator certification class that meets Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) requirements. CIS serves skilled trades in construction, energy, manufacturing, utilities, maritime, government and military markets by providing hands-on, training for the crane and rigging industry. The WIOA-approved Crane & Rigging Certificate Program is specifically designed to prepare individuals for careers in power generation, electric, water & gas utilities, communications, or commercial building.
Upon completion of the Crane & Rigging Certification Program, individuals of all skill levels can make themselves marketable with the certifications obtained through the program. The course covers: OSHA 10, basic safety, construction math, hand tools, power tools, construction drawings, basic communication skills, basic employability, material handling, certified basic rigger and qualified signal person. Throughout the program, students will receive mobile crane operator instruction and have opportunities to practice on top-ranked CM Labs’ Vortex crane simulators.
In addition to the opportunity to earn crane operator certification, the WIOA-approved program includes training on rigging (connecting) skills, signal person, OSHA 10 safety and an introduction to craft skills. Students will also have opportunities to meet area employers and learn more about local unions. CIS will connect the applicant with local “One-Stop Center” or career centers, to verify qualifications, as well as help students that successfully complete the program find employment opportunities.
Noel Whelchel, trainer and inspector with CIS, explained that the program is designed to cater to “those who don’t have a job, those who have one, but are exploring other options available in construction, utilities, ports and other crane and rigging related work and even to those who are “totally green” and have no related experience.
To put the unemployment numbers into perspective, with the world being affected by COVID- 19, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that, although the number of unemployed persons fell by 2.8 million in August, there is still 13.6 million unemployed in the U.S.
The WIOA, signed into law in 2014, continues to help American job seekers gain employment and access education and training services. Focusing on quality training that provides industry-recognized credentials, WIOA ensures job seekers are acquiring skills that meet employers’ needs. With the construction industry facing an estimated skills shortage of 1 million workers by 2023, the Crane & Rigging Certification Program is helping workers gain skills employers are looking for.
Through the Crane & Rigging Certification program, CIS has provided a specially designed program to prepare individuals for careers that are in high demand. From learning basic safety and material handling to connecting with professionals in the industry, CIS will help trainees get ahead. Simply put, the program aims to help participants access resources that will help them thrive in the industry.