NCCER Offers Spanish-language Skills Assessments, Training

July 10, 2008 • The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), Gainesville, Fla., has translated several craft skills assessments to evaluate the knowledge and skill level of the growing Hispanic workforce within the construction industry. Subject matter experts fluent in both English and Spanish were key contributors to the development of these assessments.

Assessments currently available in Spanish include Rigging Fundamentals, Core: Introductory Craft Skills, Concrete Finisher, Masonry Level One, Reinforcing Iron and Rebar, Scaffold Builder and more.

 

"A Hispanic worker may have knowledge and skills from on-the-job training, but not speak fluent English," said Tania Domenech, NCCER project manager. "Spanish-language adaptations of our assessments provide a method of measuring technical expertise, regardless of language."

 

Assessments are part of NCCER's National Craft Assessment and Certification Program. The NCACP provides contractors with an effective tool to evaluate the knowledge and skills of entry- and journey-level craft professionals. The NCACP can also assist contractors meet owner demands, maximize training dollars, and increase productivity.

 

Students who successfully pass an assessment will receive industry-recognized credentials through NCCER's National Registry and will be provided a training prescription if additional training is needed.

 

In addition, NCCER has developed both short- and long-term strategies for Hispanic workforce development. These strategies include curricula and assessment translation and instructional language courses.

 

NCCER develops and publishes titles such as Rigging Fundamentals, Safety Orientation, and Field Safety. Each title offers relevant technical hints and tips and presents real-life scenarios similar to those encountered on the jobsite. Books also feature Spanish to English glossaries to promote bilingual education. NCCER worked with Spanish-speaking subject matter experts, representing leading contractors across the country, to introduce relevant industry material into each book.

 

“Hispanic workers are an essential part of our workforce today,” said Tania Domenech, NCCER project manager. “We all look forward to continue addressing the needs of the industry by paving the way to better education, cultural integration, and awareness.”

 

Students successfully completing curricula through an NCCER Accredited Training Sponsor will earn industry-recognized credentials from the NCCER National Registry.