NEWS - Education & Colleges

JULY 5 – Savannah’s Contractor’s College Now Accepting Applications

SBJ Staff Report

July 5, 2010 - The City of Savannah’s Department of Economic Development M/WBE Program is now accepting applications for the 2010 Contractor’s College, which runs from July 13 through August 25 on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Coastal Georgia Center.

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able complete applications to become certified vendors with the City of Savannah as well as receive CEUs from Savannah State University to bid various public projects.

The Contractor’s College this year is targeting construction firms that have been in business for at least one year, according to City Economic Development Director MarRonde Lumpkin-Lotson. Only 15 to 20 firms will be selected to participate in the seven-week program.

The sponsors/facilitators for the program are Clarke Construction and The Polote Corporation, with classes facilitated by other area partners including Suntrust Bank and the Small Business Administration Corp.

Established in 2006, the City of Savannah’s Contractor’s College is an extensive, educational initiative with current curriculum addressing various topics of learning in the construction industry. Classes include:

• Reading and Understanding Contracts

• Bonding

• Estimating and Bidding

• Scheduling and Safety

• Financing the Job

• Certifications (City of Savannah, SBA, etc.)

“The City of Savannah is once again pleased to present this program with an esteemed group of partners and at nominal cost to area business,” Lumpkin-Lotson said. “In the five years since its inception, our Contractor’s College has become the most sought-after course among local contractors, as well as the cornerstone of the M/WBE Program.”

“In today's uncertain economic times, it is imperative that entrepreneurs enhance their business skill set, and establish a network from which they can learn and share experiences and opportunities,” said M/WBE Program Coordinator Kathey Porter.

Registration is $25 for classroom materials, and the deadline to register is July 9. Applications are available online through the City’s Web site at www.savannahga.gov. For more information, call (912) 651.3653.