WARWICK, R.I. (WPRI) – With numerous construction projects shaping Rhode Island’s landscape, the Construction Management Certification Program is providing small construction businesses the tools they need to expand and thrive.

The initiative, launched by Skills for Rhode Island’s Future (SkillsRI) in partnership with the New England Institute of Technology (NEIT), offers an intensive 10-week program designed to help small construction firms scale their operations.

‍Helping Businesses Grow

“There’s a lot of great painters and folks who do sheet rocking and metal work, but they don’t always necessarily go after some of these larger contracts,” said SkillsRI Executive Director Nina Pande. “There is a great opportunity for them to look at some significant economic advantages by being ready to take on some of this work that’s going to be here in our economy for many years.”

The program covers digital literacy, workplace safety, and proposal writing, equipping business owners with the knowledge they need to bid on larger contracts successfully.

“It’s a way for us to help them grow their small business, be able to employ more people, and get them ready to play more in the big leagues,” Pande added.

Focus on Minority and Women-Owned Businesses

The program places special emphasis on supporting minority- and women-owned businesses.

“A lot of small businesses, particularly minority-owned businesses and women-owned businesses, don’t have the business infrastructure to be competitive in this space,” Pande explained. “It’s really important that communities that are often overlooked or underserved or underrepresented have their equal chance of this economic pie.”

Beyond Training: Ongoing Support and Industry Collaboration

Even after completing the program, businesses continue to receive assistance from SkillsRI, particularly in technology access and bid navigation.

“We’re actually continuing to support them on accessing technology, on accessing the resources and helping them now suss out what bids they actually want to bid on,” Pande noted.

The nonprofit is also looking to partner with larger construction firms to connect them with skilled small businesses.

“If you are a construction company and you’re looking to bring in some subcontractors, we really want to talk with you as well,” Pande emphasized. “One of the things that we’re committed to doing is working with some of the larger contractors in the state, making sure we understand their needs.”

Expanding the Program for Future Growth

With the second cohort currently in session, SkillsRI aims to expand the program and offer more opportunities for small businesses to benefit.

Businesses interested in the Construction Management Certification Program can contact SkillsRI at 401-249-2222 and explore resources through the Small Business Hub.

Originally reported by Leah Crowley in WPRI.