Suffolk Construction will be launching a new comprehensive program designed to enhance the capabilities of Supplier Diversity Office (SDO)-certified businesses. The Suffolk Construction Subcontractor Development Series is a seven-session program that will assist subcontractors in cultivating long-term growth; strengthen the capacity of disadvantaged, minority, and women business enterprises; and foster relationships with Suffolk, one of the largest general contractors in New England. The unique program begins on September 13th and will be provided at no cost to 30 selected participants.
The Subcontractor Development Series will be a part of Suffolk's award-winning Learning & Development program, which continues to set the industry standard for construction training initiatives. The series will be offered exclusively to 15 union and 15 non-union subcontractors that are certified by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE), Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), or Women Owned Business Enterprise (WBE). Firms must also have been in business for a minimum of two years.
"We take great pride in building strong relationships with organizations to mentor, coach, and recruit quality-driven, experienced subcontractors on all of our projects," said Brian McPherson, director of workforce compliance at Suffolk Construction. "Offered solely for SDO-certified businesses, our Subcontractor Development Series will provide disadvantaged, minority, and women firms with valuable business management skills and a better understanding of how to successfully work with Suffolk."
"We have high hopes for the success of Suffolk's training program for SDO-certified clients. Increasing the capacity of disadvantaged, minority, and women-owned firms to work with Suffolk Construction, as well as other prime contractors, is clearly what we are striving to accomplish for SDO-certified firms," said Reggie Nunnally, executive director of the Massachusetts Supplier Diversity Office. "We will work to ensure that eligible SDO firms become knowledgeable about the program and work closely with Suffolk to ensure greater participation for DBE's, MBE's, and WBE's in both their public and private construction projects."
Participants will obtain core construction management and business skills, ranging from risk management and financials to safety and scheduling. Each two-hour course will be presented in an interactive format and led by Suffolk personnel and local industry experts. Upon successful completion of the program, participants will receive a graduation certificate and have one-on-one access to Suffolk subject matter experts.
Classes will take place every Thursday from 6-8 p.m. at Suffolk's newly renovated, state-of-the-art Conference and Learning Center in Roxbury, Massachusetts. All eligible firms are encouraged to apply. The application deadline is August 10 at 5 p.m., and selected participants will be notified by 5 p.m. on August 24. Space will be limited. For more information on the program and to apply, visit http://www.suffolkconstruction.com/subcontractor_development_series.html.