Construction Craft Curricula and Assessments Released

Words: Jennifer WilkersonRevised versions of NCCER's Cabinetmaking, Construction Technology and Instrumentation curricula are now available for the construction and maintenance industries along with new Maritime and Masonry products.

Masonry

This year, NCCER released its first Masonry written assessment and Performance Verification for journey-level masons. Topics include: personnel safety, equipment, measurements, drawings, specifications, materials, installation and reinforcing, elevated and specialized masonry. After successful completion of the written assessment or Performance Verification, individuals receive credentials that are tracked through NCCER's Registry System. When a journey-level mason successfully completes both the written assessment and Performance Verification, then he or she becomes Certified Plus, NCCER's highest credential.

Construction Technology

Another title that NCCER recently revised was Construction Technology. The fourth edition includes three new modules: Cabinetmaking, Cabinet Installation and Introduction to Construction Equipment. Construction Technology is a one-level curriculum geared toward secondary education. Training follows the flow of residential construction and covers basic knowledge and principles of carpentry, masonry, electricity, HVAC and plumbing.

NCCER develops and publishes its curricula in partnership with leading textbook publisher Pearson. Assessments are developed in conjunction with Prov, NCCER's test development partner, and are designed to evaluate the journey-level knowledge of an individual in a specific craft area and provide a prescription for upgrade training when needed. A team of subject matter experts representing industry and academia contribute to the development of training curricula, assessments and Performance Verifications to ensure they meet or exceed industry standards. NCCER curricula comply with the Department of Labor's Office of Apprenticeship requirements for time-based training.
The Cornerstone of Success: Safety and Documentation in Masonry
April 2025

The masonry industry plays a vital role in constructing our homes, businesses, and infrastructure. Yet, beneath the enduring beauty of brick and stone lies a complex and often hazardous work environment. Ensuring the safety of workers and maintaining docu

How It's Made: Natural Stone Veneer
April 2025

Natural stone veneer is a durable, versatile, and aesthetically pleasing building material that has been used for centuries. It adds timeless beauty to masonry projects while offering structural integrity and resilience. But how does natural stone veneer

Vibing Masonry #5 - The Evolution of Concrete Masonry Units: From Ancient Foundations to Modern Innovations
April 2025

Early Development: The Genesis of Concrete Blocks (early Rome to 1900s) The history of concrete masonry units (CMUs) or concrete blocks begins with humanity’s earliest binding materials, notably the Romans’ remarkable concrete. Around AD 125, structures l

MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Episode 18 Recap: Jeff Tew, Westlake Royal Stone Solutions
April 2025

On this episode of the MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Jeff Tew joins the show, along with MCAA President Jeff Buczkiewicz, to talk about where his passion for this industry started and what it's been like working on the Supplier side of the industry. An Excitin