It’s been in the planning process for over two years. Countless meetings, conference calls, consultations, dry runs – but now its for real. The Concrete Foundations Association will roll-out the CFA Certified Foundation Contractor program at this summer’s Annual Convention.

The details of the program will be covered in an in-depth article in the next edition of the Concrete Facts. This introduction will cover some of the basics posed in the above questions.

There are several reasons why a company should consider company certification. First, some building code jurisdictions require, or will soon require, that companies working in their areas be certified. A second reason is to separate your company from the competition. You can promote what the program entails, what you went through to obtain certification, and what it will mean for your clients. The CFA will be promoting the availability of the designation and benefits of using a certified contractor to builders, code officials, and homeowners. We will also produce materials that the certified contractor can use to help promote the program. Becoming certified is not an overnight proposition. If someone requires certification for a project, it could take several weeks or months to meet the requirements.

An overview of the roll-out requirements include:

• Identification of the jurisdictions in which the applicant conducts business.
• Evidence of minimum stipulated insurance coverage (ongoing).
• Listing of operations performed and equipment operated in the course of business.
• List of other trade associations and civic organizations in which you are involved.
• Employees or owners who have passed the basic knowledge exam.
• Certification of adherence to established standards of practice.
• Business and customer references
• A business practices statement (liens, licenses held or denied, financial information).
• An approved safety program
• Continuing education (after the first year)

The first opportunity for certification will be at this summer’s Convention. Forms will be available for completion prior or after the Convention and a preparatory seminar will be held during the event. It is highly recommended that applicants obtain and familiarize themselves with the study guide. The guide is a compilation of existing and new materials related to the foundation industry. The exam is open book but the detail nature of many of the questions will require the examinee to know where the information resides and how to read the tables and charts. The examination will consist of 80 multiple choice questions.

The seminar, conducted by Jim Baty and myself, will cover concrete basics, codes, and foundation fundamentals. The seminar was first offered at the CFA spring meeting in Coralville this past April. It is not required (although it counts toward your education requirements) but it will help you understand the contents of the exam and should improve your chances of passing.

If you have an interest in participating in the program, contact the CFA office for the application forms and details of the program. They will be available in early July.