STCC class prepares students for careers in the paving industry
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Springfield Technical Community College will offer an asphalt pre-apprenticeship class that paves the way for careers working in asphalt laboratories.
The 280-hour program, which runs Feb. 22 through April 23, consists of classroom work and paid, on-the-job training.
In this photo from March 2020, an instructor at STCC shows students how sieves work in the asphalt production process.
STCC President John B. Cook said, "After many, many months of planning and partnering, this represents a signature workforce training. With appreciation to our industry partners, STCC is very pleased to continue our technical mission."
Students who successfully complete the three-part pre-apprenticeship program will qualify for a paid, on-the-job-training apprenticeship program with a member of the Massachusetts Aggregate and Asphalt Pavement Association (MAAPA).
The three parts of the program are:
- STCC Asphalt Academy classroom (82 Hours) which uses a state-of-art asphalt laboratory on the STCC campus. In addition, students receive career guidance, interviewing preparation and resume writing assistance that will lead to interviews with MAAPA member firms.
- Four weeks of paid, on-the-job-training with a member of MAAPA. Students work with state-of-the-art equipment and experienced highway builders to increase knowledge of the industry.
- The New England Transportation Technician Certification Program (NETTCP) Hot Mix Asphalt Plant Technician Certification course (37.5 Hours) and exam at the STCC Asphalt Academy and Asphalt Laboratory.
A student who completes the 280-hour Asphalt Quality Control Pre-Apprenticeship Program will be considered for enrollment in the 2,000 hour paid, on-the-Job apprenticeship program which will help enhance quality control analyst skills.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for anyone interested in advancing in their career or starting a career in the paving industry,” said David Buonora, vice president of the Workforce Development Center at STCC. “The demand for jobs in the paving industry remains strong. Our program puts you on track to become a candidate for good-paying jobs where you work as an asphalt inspector or technician.”
This training is possible through collaborative efforts with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Transportation, Massachusetts Asphalt Aggregate and Asphalt Association (MAAPA) and the New England Transportation Technician Certification Program (NETTCP).
STCC is the only community college in the state with asphalt certification training, said Jim Reger, executive director of Massachusetts Aggregate and Asphalt Paving Association (MAAPA), which provided funding for the mobile lab.
“There is a tremendous need for asphalt technicians,” Reger said. MAAPA represents owners and operators of hot mix batching plants and quarries in Massachusetts.
Reger explained that new specifications from MassDOT will require more licensed technicians and inspectors who will be in demand for jobs working in the field or at asphalt production facilities.
For more information about costs, the schedule and how to apply, visit stcc.edu/wdc and click on the “Asphalt Quality Control Analyst” link.
For questions, contact the STCC Workforce Development Center at (413) 755-4225 or email wdc@stcc.edu.
Interested in applying to STCC? Visit stcc.edu/apply or call Admissions at (413) 755-3333.
About Springfield Technical Community College
STCC, the Commonwealth's only technical community college, continues the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory with comprehensive and technical education in manufacturing, STEM, healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. STCC's highly regarded workforce, certificate, degree, and transfer programs are the most affordable in Springfield and provide unequalled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1967, the college – a designated Hispanic Serving Institution – seeks to close achievement gaps among students who traditionally face societal barriers. STCC supports students as they transform their lives through intellectual, cultural, and economic engagement while becoming thoughtful, committed and socially responsible graduates.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jim Danko, (413) 755-4812, jdanko@stcc.edu