Inside AGC Chapter Corner

November/December 2008

Project Manager Development Program Launched

Offers new and early-career PMs a quick way to improve their skills

In October, AGC of America launched the Project Manager Development Program for early-career project managers or those looking to move into such a role. Covering the essential skills, tactics and strategies for successful construction project management, PMDP provides a platform for a successful career in construction.

"AGC continues building on its commitment to create a workforce for the future," says Stephen E. Sandherr, AGC’s chief executive officer. "This program is an excellent example of how our profession can build career opportunities for thousands of individuals."

The curriculum is divided into five modules, each designed to increase project-manager efficiency and effectiveness, provide instruction on the art and science of project management and enhance professional development.

Modules may be delivered in any order. Each module is designed for 16 hours of instruction, with the ability to block the material into two-, four- or eight-hour sessions in order to accommodate a variety of course structures.

The first module, Estimating and Job Costing, explains the importance of an estimate, develops professional estimating skills and explains the link between design, estimating and project costs. Students learn how equipment costs are developed and integrated into the estimate, and how work by others is also included.

The second module, Contract Administration, introduces construction law and project delivery, contract basics, payment terms and legal issues. The third module, Project Administration, introduces project safety, planning, staffing and partnering. It also covers planning for environmental and sustainability concerns, project scheduling and materials handling.

Modules four and five, Risk Management and Leadership, round out the program with an introduction to risk and explanation of insurance, sureties and bonding, plus guidance on working in teams, managing conflict and improving leadership skills.

PMDP participants are likely to have various titles, depending on the kind of work they perform, the geographical location of their projects and the size of their companies. Such titles as assistant project manager, project manager, field engineer, project engineer or project administration may fit course attendees.

Each course is activity-based, with discussions, case studies, problems, exercises and tips from successful industry professionals.

PMDP will be offered at many of AGC’s 96 nationwide chapters and can be brought in-house to construction firms or educational institutions interested in teaching the essentials of construction project management.

Courses have already been scheduled at several AGC chapters across the country. AGC of Wisconsin has elected to pilot the PMDP series in a geographically central location in 2008-09 and plans to offer the program in two locations in 2009-10. Recently, the chapter completed two modules, Leadership and Contract Administration.

"Training for early to mid-level project managers is critical for our members, and the response has been very positive," says Laura Cataldo, director of marketing and public relations at AGC of Wisconsin.

"The majority of the registrants for PMDP have signed up for the entire series, and some of the participating companies have a student in the class to evaluate whether they should incorporate PMDP into their internal training process."

AGC of Michigan and AGC of Washington education foundations have begun planning for the launch of the PMDP at their chapters as well.

Each module features a participant manual and an instructor guide, which includes guide sheets for activities and assignments, PowerPoint presentations and "Tips from the Top" videos, in which experienced construction professionals provide commentary on a variety of topics, including CPM scheduling, risk management, budget design, cost control and leadership.

Upon completion of each course, participants will receive a certificate from the course sponsor. AGC of America will issue a PMDP Completion Certificate for participants who complete all five PMDP modules.