In today’s tight economy and competitive business environment, staying ahead of the competition is more important than ever! You and your workforce must be up-to-date and well-versed in all facets of sales, production, testing, customer service, operations, training, product installation, business management, and best practices relevant to the concrete masonry and hardscape industry.
NCMA's Concrete Products University (CPU) courses address specific challenges faced by everyone in our field. Each class focuses on the practical application of course content to real-world issues, and will help you and your staff improve the profitability of your business.
Employers, consumers, designers, and other business partners value independent certification as a sign of an individual’s relevant industry knowledge, skill, and training. CPU offers several prestigious certification programs, enabling successful candidates to provide their skill and achieve their personal and professional goals.
Education courses, certification programs, and seminars custom-developed to meet our members' training needs are delivered throughout the year at NCMA Headquarters, at NCMA's Annual Convention, and locally throughout the United States and Canada.
Installation Segmental Retaining Wall Installer – Level I / Basic Segmental Retaining Wall Installer – Advanced Hands-On Segmental Retaining Wall Installation Hands-On Segmental Retaining Wall Installation Advanced
Design Segmental Retaining Wall Seminar Federal Officials Seminar in Hardscapes Applications
Webinars Concrete Masonry Technology Crash Courses
Questions & Answers
Next scheduled class – December 1-2, 2011
Block and Hardscape Products Sales CourseThis course provides entry-level sales professionals with an overview of concrete masonry and hardscape products and systems. In addition to product training, participants learn from industry experts about market trends and how to sell to designers, contractors, and landscape architects. The course agenda is balanced between concrete masonry product knowledge, hardscape product knowledge, and fundamental sales skills. Participants gain a solid foundation for selling products with confidence and dealing effectively with customers. (Note: The NCMA/CSI Technical Sales Course focuses on the technical aspects of concrete masonry products, while the Block and Hardscape Products Sales Course focuses on product fundamentals and sales skills.) The Block and Hardscape Products Sales Course is open to new personnel responsible for selling concrete masonry and hardscape systems and to seasoned sales personnel in need of additional training or refresher tips. For more information about this course, please contact Harry W. Junk.<back to top>
Next scheduled class – November 9-10, 2011
NCMA/CSI Technical Sales CourseNCMA and the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) developed the Technical Sales Course to educate sales personnel about the fundamental technical aspects of designing and building with concrete masonry. This training positions sales representatives as valuable resources for designers using concrete masonry, and was specifically developed for those who regularly contact engineers, architects, or other specifiers of concrete masonry products. The Technical Sales Course provides a broad introduction to the properties and design aspects of concrete masonry units and systems. This information is reinforced with strategies for effectively selling to the architectural and engineering communities. Topics covered include: building a relationship with the design professional; concrete masonry unit specifications and test methods (with laboratory demonstrations); fire, sound, and energy performance issues; design and installation concepts for hardscape products including concrete pavers and segmental retaining wall (SRW) units; understanding model building codes; structural design considerations; crack control; and water penetration and mold resistance. This course is open to industry professionals who have at least two years of industry experience or who have completed the CPU Block and Hardscape Products Sales Course. After completing the Technical Sales Course (or equivalent technical-sales-related education), candidates take the NCMA Certified Consultant of Concrete Masonry (C3M) exam. Each candidate who passes the C3M exam and has one of the following other credentials is certified as a C3M:
The C3M and CDT credentials are highly valued and open many doors in the design community. For more information about this course, please contact Dennis W. Graber.<back to top>
Next scheduled class – May 3-6, 2011
AIA/CES Provider Training ProgramIn response to an increased emphasis on continuing education, architects and engineers are turning to industry representatives to learn about new technology and design practices being implemented in masonry construction. To meet this need, NCMA has become an approved provider of continuing education by the American Institute of Architects' Continuing Education System (AIA/CES), and has developed several AIA/CES-approved seminars for design professionals. NCMA’s AIA/CES Provider Training Program trains experienced sales and marketing professionals from the manufactured concrete products industry how to deliver these continuing education seminars to designers or in-house staff. Individuals who complete this program become NCMA Continuing Education Facilitators (CEF) and are authorized to present NCMA’s AIA/CES-approved seminars and to award AIA/CES Learning Units to those designers who attend the seminars. In addition to learning effective presentation skills, attendees are provided with a series of ready-to-use PowerPoint presentations covering topics relating to concrete masonry and hardscape design and construction, including: • Crack control • Fire resistance • Moisture penetration abatement • SRW and ACB design and construction • Thermal properties of concrete masonry systems • Sustainable design • Mold abatement design and construction • Architectural enhancement: Aesthetical design This program will help participants convey critical information to designers and to establish themselves as a valuable resource to their customers. Registration is open to NCMA Members (only) who have completed the NCMA/CSI Technical Sales Course or demonstrate equivalent knowledge through the successful completion of a prequalification exam. For more information about this course, please contact Harry W. Junk.<back to top>
Next scheduled class – April 21-22, 2011
Segmental Retaining Wall Installer Train-the-Trainer – Level I / BasicThe SRW Installer Basic Course and certification exam are delivered locally by NCMA-authorized industry representatives (SRW Installer Trainers). NCMA members whose employees complete this Train-the-Trainer Level I course can provide a valued service to and build relationships with SRW installers by sponsoring local course sessions and certification exams. This Train-the-Trainer course teaches SRW installation guidelines, material and system component properties, soils and compaction, site practices, and how to teach this subject to installers. Attendees learn effective presentation skills in the context of adult education, and how to become a knowledge resource for business partners. This course is open to NCMA Members only. For more information about this course, please contact Gabriela Mariscal.<back to top>
Next scheduled class – December 7-8, 2011 – Herndon Virginia June 8-9, 2011 – Minneapolis, Minnesota
Segmental Retaining Wall Installer Train-the-Trainer – AdvancedThe SRW Installer Advanced Course and certification exam are delivered locally by NCMA-authorized industry representatives (SRW Installer Trainers). NCMA members whose employees complete this Train-the-Trainer course can provide a valued service to and build relationships with SRW installers by sponsoring local course sessions and certification exams. This Train-the-Trainer course teaches Advanced SRW Installation for Advanced Residential and Small Commercial Projects: wall layout and planning, water and drainage, tiered walls, corners and curves, patios, etc., and how to teach this subject to installers. Attendees learn how to become a knowledge resource for business partners. This course is open to authorized SRW Trainers (Level I/Basic). For more information about this course, please contact Gabriela Mariscal.<back to top>
Next scheduled class – December 9, 2011 – Herndon Virginia June 10, 2011 – Minneapolis, Minnesota
PRODUCTION AND TESTING
Concrete Masonry Testing Procedures CourseWould your QA/QC personnel be able to improve your bottom line—if only they were better trained? To help ensure that concrete masonry and hardscape products are fairly and accurately evaluated, and that their compliance is properly documented, the Testing Procedures course was developed to educate users of product standards about proper testing procedures. Geared towards QA/QC personnel, sales personnel, and lab technicians, this course teaches how to evaluate the properties of concrete masonry, concrete masonry materials, and hardscape materials. Students are taught the ASTM standards pertaining to: concrete masonry units, pavers, segmental retaining wall units, articulating concrete block, concrete brick, concrete roof paving units, masonry mortar, grout, and prisms. Hands-on, laboratory sessions are used to translate classroom knowledge into practical experience and reinforce correct testing procedures. Instructors oversee the research and testing performed at the NCMA Research and Development Laboratory and actively participate in the ASTM committees responsible for the development and revision of specifications and test methods for concrete masonry products. Certified Concrete Masonry Testing Technician (CCMTT) Program Candidates who complete the Concrete Masonry Testing Procedures Course (or equivalent testing-procedures-related education) and pass a written and performance certification examination earn the Certified Concrete Masonry Testing Technician (CCMTT) credential. For more information about this course, please contact Nick R. Lang. $595 Member/$695 Non-Member<back to top>
Next scheduled class – October 6-8, 2011Recertification Application
Sponsored Production Course The NCMA Laboratory staff can create production-related courses on demand, tailored to fit your company’s needs. The NCMA Laboratory, production facility, and newly-renovated, state-of-the-art, Concrete Products University classroom are all available to host your custom course. For more information about this course, please contact Nick R. Lang.<back to top>
For a schedule of local certification exam administrations proctored by NCMA SRW Installer Trainers, please click here.
Segmental RetainingWall Installer Course – AdvancedTake your hardscape installation skills to the next level! This program increases your value to your customers by teaching you SRW applications and installation techniques for advanced residential and light commercial projects, and is open to NCMA Certified SRW Installers (CSRWI) who are engaged in the construction of SRWs. Advanced topics include: Wall layout and planning, water and drainage, cut and fill walls, tiered walls, corners and curves, stairs and patios. For more information about this course, please contact Gabriela Mariscal.<back to top>
Hands-On Segmental Retaining Wall Installation Get hands-on training on how to install a concrete segmental retaining wall (SRW) – this course is a must for hardscape installers of all experience levels! Participants will be guided by a seasoned expert through the critical steps of an actual SRW installation, including site layout, excavation, preparation/laying of the base course, installaion of wall blocks, installation of a drainage system, use of geosynthetic reinforcement (grid and fabrics), placement and compaction of backfill, and capping and fence posts. For more information about this course, please contact Gabriela Mariscal.<back to top>
Next scheduled class - October 2011 - Louisville, Kentucky
Hands-On Segmental Retaining Wall Installation AdvancedTake your hardscape installation skills to the next level! This hands-on training increases your value to your customers by teaching you advanced segmental retaining wall (SRW) applications and installation techniques. A nationally recognized trainer will guide you through these advanced topics, including tiered walls, step installation (including regulatory codes), eletrical components in wall (including in-wall lighting), wall-tip mountings (including lighting, hand rails, and fences), free-standing walls, utilities through walls, grid strength/placement, and compation equipment. For more information about this course, please contact Gabriela Mariscal.<back to top>
DESIGN
Segmental Retaining Wall Design SeminarThe Segmental Retaining Wall (SRW) Design Seminar is a one-day program for design professionals, specifiers, architects, and engineers engaged in segmental retaining wall design. The seminar provides an in-depth look at internal and external design considerations for SRWs; including sliding, overturning, bearing, pullout, tensile rupture, and facing connection and bulging. The seminar also addresses design and detail considerations associated with surface and subsurface water. Each registered attendee receives a copy of NCMA's Design Manual for SRWs. For more information about this course, please contact Gabriela Mariscal.<back to top>
Next scheduled class – March 4, 2011 – State College, Pennsylvania
AIA/CES-Approved SeminarsThe following AIA/CES-approved seminars are taught by NCMA’s Continuing Education Facilitators (click here to find one near you) and by NCMA staff on request:
Federal Officials Seminar on Hardscape Applications The Federal Officials Seminar on Hardscape Applications is a one-day program for specifiers, architects, engineers engaged in government and transportation projects. The seminar provides an in-depth look to the benefits and issues associated with the use of Segmental Retaining Walls (SRWs), pavers, Articulated Concrete Blocks (ACBs) and other related hardscape products. Audience: Specifiers, program/project managers, engineers, architects, construction managers, facilities managers, conservationists, researchers, and others associated with government building and transportation projects. For more information about this course, please contact Gabriela Mariscal.<back to top>
Next scheduled class - May 2011
WEBINARS
Concrete Masonry Technology Crash CoursesThere never seems to be enough time in the day to meet project demands and continue one’s professional development. In response to today’s fast-paced environment, NCMA created crash courses; intensely focused online courses covering the most frequently asked questions related to concrete masonry design, specification, and construction. Each course is begins at 1:00 pm (eastern) on the first Wednesday of each month and lasts only 30 minutes. Future scheduled courses include:
March 2, 2011 – Crack ControlUncontrolled cracking can significantly detract from an otherwise beautiful masonry project. In this crash course you will learn:
May 4, 2011 – NCMA’s Thermal Catalog of Concrete Masonry AssembliesThe number of variables and design options available to meet energy efficiency requirements of contemporary building codes is nearly limitless. To help navigate the multitude of options available, NCMA recently published a catalog illustrating the steady-state R-values of multiple commonly used single and multi-wythe wall assemblies. This seminar introduces users to the catalog’s content and explains how they are to be applied in practice.
June 1, 2011 – NCMA Design and Construction ResourcesNCMA has a significant amount of resources available to assist producers, designers and contractors regarding concrete masonry design and construction. In this crash course you will learn what these resources are, how to use them, and how they can make your job easier.
July 6, 2011 – Specifying Mortar TypesA wide variety of mortars are available for concrete masonry construction. What type of mortar should you be specifying/using on your next masonry project? In this crash course you will learn the code limitations for the different types of mortars available and industry recommendations for the best performance. The advantages and disadvantages of each mortar type will be presented.
August 3, 2011 – Articulating Concrete Block Design SoftwareArticulating Concrete Blocks (ACBs) are an excellent erosion protection system when properly designed. The ACB software crash course will teach designers how to use new ACB design spreadsheet, based on the current ACB design methodologies, to design ACBs and also use the riprap module to compare side-by-side both systems. September 7, 2011 – Lap Splices in Concrete Masonry ConstructionLap splice design and detailing requirements have continuously evolved over the past several years to reflect on-going research. The most recent series of changes that have been incorporated into the 2011 TMS 402/ACI 530/ASCE 5 and 2012 edition of the International Building Code will be reviewed. October 5, 2011 – Complying with Air Barrier Requirements Using Concrete MasonryThe 2012 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) will for the first time require performance requirements for air barriers installed on most buildings. There are many options available for using concrete masonry and complying with these new requirements. This crash course will review the IECC requirements and how concrete masonry can be used to economically and efficiently meet these new requirements. November 2, 2011 – Compliance Options for f’mThe materials used in loadbearing concrete masonry construction must comply with the specified compressive strength of masonry, f’m. Current building codes provide several methods for verifying compliance with f’m, mostly commonly the unit strength method and the prism test method. Both methods have advantages and drawbacks. This crash course discusses these methods and how they are used to determine compliance.
August 3, 2011 – Articulating Concrete Block Design SoftwareArticulating Concrete Blocks (ACBs) are an excellent erosion protection system when properly designed. The ACB software crash course will teach designers how to use new ACB design spreadsheet, based on the current ACB design methodologies, to design ACBs and also use the riprap module to compare side-by-side both systems.
September 7, 2011 – Lap Splices in Concrete Masonry ConstructionLap splice design and detailing requirements have continuously evolved over the past several years to reflect on-going research. The most recent series of changes that have been incorporated into the 2011 TMS 402/ACI 530/ASCE 5 and 2012 edition of the International Building Code will be reviewed.
October 5, 2011 – Complying with Air Barrier Requirements Using Concrete MasonryThe 2012 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) will for the first time require performance requirements for air barriers installed on most buildings. There are many options available for using concrete masonry and complying with these new requirements. This crash course will review the IECC requirements and how concrete masonry can be used to economically and efficiently meet these new requirements.
November 2, 2011 – Compliance Options for f’mThe materials used in loadbearing concrete masonry construction must comply with the specified compressive strength of masonry, f’m. Current building codes provide several methods for verifying compliance with f’m, mostly commonly the unit strength method and the prism test method. Both methods have advantages and drawbacks. This crash course discusses these methods and how they are used to determine compliance.
December 7, 2011 – Moisture Management with Concrete Masonry ConstructionConcrete masonry is the ideal building material as it is very resistant to the ill effects of water, however, proper detailing is required to prevent water entry into the structure thereby preventing deterioration of other materials inside the building that can lead to unhealthy work and living conditions. In this crash course you will learn about the materials and industry recommended detailing to provide a strong, durable and watertight structure that comfortable and provides a healthy environment for the occupants.<back to top>
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
Q. Where are programs held?
A. NCMA’s education and training programs are generally conducted at the association’s headquarters, in Herndon, Virginia, which is in the Washington, DC, metro area. NCMA is just minutes from Dulles International Airport and is convenient to several interstate highways. The association’s facilities include a fully-equipped classroom and a state-of-the-art laboratory devoted exclusively to research and testing of concrete masonry products. In addition, all of NCMA’s educational programs can be made available at your location with local co-sponsorship.
Q. Where are attendees lodged?
A. NCMA has special reduced rates at designated hotels which are conveniently located to NCMA’s headquarters. Some hotels offer complimentary shuttle service to and from Dulles International Airport.
Q. When are courses conducted?
A. NCMA’s schools are held throughout the year. Specific dates are published annually, and generally are between late fall and early spring. Separate announcements, with enrollment information and registration forms for each program are distributed to NCMA members in advance. Course descriptions are available on the website.
Q. Who should attend?
A. This varies from program to program. For example, the NCMA/CSI Technical Sales Training Program has prerequisites requiring several years of experience and sequential attendance at each of the program’s three phases. Other schools are targeted at specific job functions within the concrete masonry industry. Refer to the course descriptions for each course in this brochure for further details.
Q. Are customized programs available?
A. Yes! NCMA staff can provide programs that are tailored specifically to meet your company’s needs, or those of your customers. The association will work with you to conduct training at your facility, at NCMA’s headquarters or at another convenient location. Topics that have been the focus of previous programs have included product specifications; masonry research and testing; codes and standards updates; structural design, specifications and construction; and quality assurance.
These customized programs — besides focusing on your needs — can save you time and money and promote teamwork between your employees and customers. Contact NCMA for specific details on program options and the cost to conduct them.<back to top>
For information about any of NCMA's education or certification programs please contact Brittaney K. Thompson.