Contractor Training Center Rolls Out USA National Plan to Close Skills Gap
With the construction industry at a crossroads—facing rising costs, persistent labour shortages, and ever-growing operational demands, Contractor Training Center (CTC) has stepped up with a timely and ambitious solution.
The national training provider, headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, is launching a dual-pronged initiative aimed at reshaping how contractors are trained, supported, and empowered to grow.
The centrepiece of this push is a compelling national survey titled Bridging the Skills Gap in the Construction Industry, backed by the release of a comprehensive Contractor Business Accelerator Program that equips today’s tradespeople with the modern toolkit needed to thrive in a challenging, tech-forward landscape.
According to Patrick Hayes, General Manager at CTC: “Our research revealed an urgent need for affordable, accessible training pathways that address both technical skills and soft skills. Our goal is to help contractors proactively navigate these challenges and grow strong, future-ready careers and businesses.”
What the Data Tells Us
CTC’s 2025 survey gathered insights from hundreds of contractors and hiring managers across the United States. And the verdict? There’s a serious disconnect between what contractors believe they offer and what employers actually need.
Key areas where contractors fell short include:
- Communication and time management
- Project oversight and operations know-how
- Digital readiness, especially proficiency with construction management software
The findings echo the sentiments expressed by major industry players such as the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), and Autodesk. CTC’s report doesn’t just spotlight the problem—it lays out actionable, research-driven recommendations to close the gap.
As Hayes explained: “This study confirmed what many in the industry feel every day—that while craftsmanship and job site management expertise are essential, it’s often the business, leadership, and tech skills that make or break a project’s success.”
Smart Training for Real-World Growth
Responding to the findings, CTC has rolled out the Contractor Business Accelerator Program, an online, self-paced course designed for both seasoned pros and those just getting started. What makes this different from the average CPD course? It doesn’t just tick boxes; it delivers tangible business outcomes.
Here’s what contractors get:
- Structured modules covering strategic business planning, financial management, branding and marketing, and leadership
- Practical, downloadable tools and templates that can be put into use straight away
- Tiered learning paths tailored to the size and maturity of the business
- Optional one-on-one coaching sessions with seasoned construction advisors
The programme takes around 12 to 15 hours to complete, but the benefits can be long-lasting. Each participant finishes with a strategic growth plan aligned to their business goals.
One 2025 student shared their experience: “This experience was transformative for our business. Thanks to the support and resources provided, we’ve made significant progress.”
Certification with Real Industry Clout
Beyond business strategy, CTC hasn’t forgotten about the frontline skills that keep sites running safely and efficiently. The centre’s Construction Project Management Certification fills this gap with training that includes:
- Advanced team leadership and scheduling techniques
- Contract administration and financial control training
- Interactive learning with Procore software via a sandbox environment
- A recognised credential that contractors can proudly display to bolster their professional credibility
Whether it’s managing tight deadlines, juggling subcontractors, or balancing budgets, the programme gives site leaders the tools to lead from the front.
A Broader Industry Mandate
What makes CTC’s approach particularly compelling is the way it blends flexibility with depth. In an industry where workers often juggle long hours and unpredictable schedules, self-paced learning is more than a convenience—it’s essential.
With over 30 years of experience and now operating as part of the Colibri Group, CTC has already helped thousands of contractors secure licences and certifications in key trades, including construction, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical work. This latest move further cements its role as a catalyst for professional growth.
Hayes summed it up: “We’re not just offering courses. We’re building futures. We want contractors to walk away with not only better credentials but better businesses.”
Eye on the Future
CTC’s initiatives couldn’t come at a better time. The US construction industry is forecast to grow steadily over the next five years, driven by major infrastructure investments and a renewed focus on housing and clean energy projects. But without a workforce ready to meet the challenge, the risk of project delays and budget overruns remains high.
By investing in both hard and soft skills, and by partnering closely with employers and educators, CTC is laying the groundwork for a more resilient, tech-savvy workforce. The aim? To ensure contractors are not only building the future but are fully prepared to succeed in it.
Empowering Builders, Transforming Business
In a sector where margins are thin and the pressure to deliver is relentless, CTC’s focus on business acumen, digital literacy, and leadership training could be a game changer. The skills gap isn’t just an HR issue—it’s a growth issue. And tackling it head-on is what separates surviving firms from thriving ones.
The message from CTC is loud and clear: it’s time to build smarter, not just harder.
