Aspiring Contractor Program

Learn how to start and run a successful union company.
January 29-February 2
Virtual

About The Program

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If you’ve always wanted to start your own company or recently took the plunge, our Aspiring Contractor Development Program gives you the tools to succeed as a union contractor.

This 5-day virtual program covers all the basics for getting started, from creating a business plan, to financing options, registering your company, and beyond. 

Learn what it takes to be a successful union contractor from experienced business owners, industry professionals, and BAC/IMI experts. See the full course details below.

This program is best suited for BAC craftworkers interested in starting their own business or newly established BAC signatory contracting companies. Certificates will be awarded to participants who complete the program in full.

Speakers

Tom Elliott-1
Tom Elliott
Director Of Industry Development
& Technical Services

IMI
Mike V1
Michael Di Virgilio
Director of Collective
Bargaining/Revenue Accounting

BAC
Fred V1
FRED KINATEDER
President
Kinateder Consulting
Don Zavesky
DON ZAVESKY
Procurement Specialist
Ohio APEX Accelerator
david-hincapie-sba
David Hincapie
Lender Relations Specialist,
Veteran Business Development Officer

U.S. Small Business Administration
Washington Metropolitan Area District Office

Course Details and Schedule

Overview

IMI's Aspiring Contractor program is a 5-day virtual program running Monday, January 29 through Friday, February 2, from 7-9 p.m. ET each day.

The coursework is intended for BAC craftworkers interested in starting their own business and newly established signatory contractors. Class size will be limited to allow for optimal interactivity. In order to earn a certificate, participants must attend all 5 days of programming. 

Course Description

Join us and learn how to develop a business plan, establish a company, and structure a team. Get important information on funding, bonds, insurance, payroll, and more. You’ll also gain a basic understanding of estimating, cash flow, pay applications, and construction documents. Finally, we’ll demystify your responsibilities as a union contractor and show you how BAC can help with workforce development, work opportunities, and more.

Our experts will lead a Q&A session at the end of each day to answer any questions you might have about starting a business.

 

7-9 p.m. ET
Session 1 - January 29: Establishing Your Company's Framework
  • Learn how to develop a business plan.
  • Identify financing requirements/responsibilities. 
  • Understand how to create a culture of civility and create onboarding methods for employees.
  • Describe the fundamental elements of building strong business relationships.
  • Evaluate different platforms and resources for registering a company and efficiently navigating the bid process.
7-9 p.m. ET
Session 2 - January 30: BAC Agreements
  • Understand Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBA).
  • Discuss union responsibilities.
  • Explain the benefits and drawbacks of pension and healthcare plans.
  • Define the terms benefit responsibilities and bonding requirements in the context of business operations.
  • Clarify the steps involved in working in another jurisdiction, including the legal requirements and procedures that must be followed to obtain the necessary permits and licenses.
7-9 p.m. ET
Session 3 - January 31: Estimating 101
  • Discuss the cash flow estimator tool and its effectiveness in analyzing and managing cash flows for business operations. 
  • Explain the legal requirements of invoicing and the process of documenting services and rendering payment owed.
  • Describe Property, Plant, and Equipment (PP&E) Accounting.
  • Give examples of estimating costs for a construction project by factoring in overhead and profit margin.
7-9 p.m. ET
Session 4 - February 1: BAC and IMI Resources
  • Understand the support BAC can offer in furnishing skilled craftworkers.
  • Discuss the concept of target/market recovery funds and their potential to optimize risk and returns in investment portfolios.
  • Identify how BAC assists with finding projects.
  • Describe the resources offered by IMI, including project support and continuing education opportunities.
7-9 p.m. ET
Session 5 - February 2: Strategies To Work With Construction Lawyers and Accountants
  • Understand the significance of involving an attorney in the process of starting a company.
  • Compare a business line of credit vs. a business loan.
  • See different payroll service options. 
  • Discuss the value of the contract review process.
  • Understand the significance of workplace benefits, the different types of benefits available, and the legal and financial implications of offering benefits.