November 17, 2010

MEDIA CONTACT:
Marilyn Clark
LGUCG minority business enterprise liaison
859-258-3323

Minority and Women Construction Training Program Accepting Applications

Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government (LFUCG) is accepting applications for the Lexington Minority and Women Construction Training Program. The program kicks off January 11, 2011. Classes will be held at the Government Center, 200 East Main Street, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

The ten-week program is sponsored by the Kentucky Small Business Development Center (KSBDC), the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government, Fayette County Public Schools, and the Bluegrass Airport.

“The program is designed to help minorities and women successfully compete in the construction industry,” said Marilyn Clark, Minority Business Enterprise Liaison. “This is a serious commitment of time for the businesses who participate. Classes will meet for three hours once a week for ten weeks. We are pleased to have classes taught by Dr. Scott Arias, an Eastern Kentucky University Professor well versed in construction management as the primary instructor along with other business experts.”

Topics will include: business planning; business and contract law; insurance and surety bonds; accounting and financial management; drawings and specifications; estimating and bidding; planning and project safety; scheduling; cost management; project cash flow analysis; claims; alternative dispute resolution; administration, management and subcontracts; contracts and documentation. Boxed lunches will be served each night.

“We are specifically targeting existing businesses that understand the nuts and bolts of their craft and want the technical, managerial and entrepreneurial skills to take their business to the next level. We know from past experience, the improvement of business management skills prevents potential problems and increases the likelihood of business success,” said Dee Dee Harbut, director for special programs at the Kentucky Small Business Development Center.

Applications will be sent to women and minority-owned businesses listed in data bases maintained by the LFUCG, the Bluegrass Airport, Fayette County Public Schools and the Small Business Development Center as well as other agencies that work with small business development. Applications can also be obtained on the government’s website.

“The deadline for submitting an application is December 10. The minimal cost to each participant chosen for the program is $50, Clark said. The class is open to a maximum of 15 companies.”

For more information, email or call Marilyn Clark, 859-258-3320 or Dee Dee Harbut, 859-257-7668.