Caltrans and California State University, Long Beach, announced in July a program that will increase quality and reduce delays on construction projects statewide. The Joint Training and Certification Program will offer courses on hot-mix asphalt, soils and aggregates, and Portland cement concrete.

Technicians earn certification by taking a prerequisite test in one area of specialization, followed by in-person class, laboratory and written/practical examination sessions. Caltrans, local agency and contractor personnel attend the same classes, work together and receive equivalent training and certification.

This practice fosters respect within the industry, while generating increased consistency. The JTCP also enables individuals and agencies to verify progress and certifications held by other individuals.

The in-person classes will be offered at CSULB and San Jose State University starting in December 2017.

For more information or to sign up for courses, visit https://web.csulb.edu/colleges/coe/jtcp/.