FAQ - Construction

CPI's programs are focused on preparing and connecting service members to opportunities with contractors and producers in the construction industry. As an independent nonprofit organization, we work to individually match each candidate with companies that are likely to have the most appropriate fitting roles. By partnering with a wide variety of industry companies and seeking the best fit for each candidate, outcomes for our participants and our partnering companies are more successful.

Additionally, CPI's Park Program's work completing construction projects keeps us in-tune with circumstances effecting the industry – we’re in the arena. This first-hand understanding of the industry is beneficial in our communication with industry companies and the challenges they're facing.

Service members gain construction management experience as they work to plan projects including scheduling, logistics, procurement, and safety related to a real-world construction project. Additionally, each service member gains trades-level skills through their hands-on work completing the project typically including carpentry, concrete mixing and placement, demolition, etc. They will also have completed several certifications: OSHA 10 hour, ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician Grade 1, Fall Protection - Competent Person, Forklift/tele-handler training, Respirator Fit-test.

The majority of service members with whom CPI works have minimal, if any, previous construction experience prior to enrollment in CPI’s programs. While candidates generally have a knowledge gap around specific areas in the construction industry, they bring a number of strong, key traits and experiences that translate well into our industry.

CPI's process of matching candidates with companies is designed to create a high probability of long term employment success, which includes managing candidate expectations. Our process includes helping them understand the typical day-to-day of industry roles they're most interested in pursuing, along with sharing local compensation ranges for entry-level roles in their career track of interest.