WHY CICC, WHY NOW?

Colorado’s construction industry is facing a growing workforce challenge. More than 30,000 construction positions remain unfilled across the state, and demand for skilled professionals continues to rise. The shortage exists at every level, creating a need for a sustainable pipeline of talent entering the industry.

However, the challenge is not a lack of opportunity. It is a lack of connection. Too often, students are unaware of the rewarding careers available in construction, while employers struggle to connect with the next generation of talent.

Many students are leaving high school without a clear understanding of their career options. According to the 2025 YouScience Post-Graduation Readiness Report, there is a growing disconnect between students’ education and their readiness for real-world success. Over 75% say they would have been more engaged in school if they had a better understanding of their strengths and future opportunities.

By uniting education and industry, CICC bridges the gap and creates a solution that addresses both workforce demand and student success.

WHAT WE PROVIDE

For Schools

• Nationally recognized HBI pre-apprenticeship, OSHA curriculum and certifications
• Instructor training and ongoing support
• Career Navigator services
• Industry engagement opportunities, including guest speakers, jobsite tours and job shadowing
• Access to grants, resources and program support

For Industry

• Trained, career-ready students
• Internship, apprenticeship and employment connections
• Opportunities to engage with students through classroomvisits, jobsite tours and mentorship
• Workforce development partnerships with local schools
• Sponsorship, advocacy and community engagementopportunities
• Collaboration with educators to align training with workforceneeds

SUSTAINABLE MODEL

CICC partners with schools through a three-year investment model designed to launch and sustain high-quality construction pathways. During this partnership, CICC funds curriculum licensing, teacher training and industry-recognized certifications. We also provide a dedicated Career Navigator to support implementation, student recruitment, employer engagement and program success.

Throughout the three years, schools submit eligible student outcomes to the Colorado
Department of Education through the Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness (PWR) initiative, earning reimbursement for industry-recognized credentials, postsecondary coursework and work-based learning experiences. At the end of the partnership, CICC and the school evaluate the program’s sustainability. Schools transition to funding certification and program costs through PWR reimbursements, while CICC continues to provide curriculum licensing and ongoing support to ensure long-term success.

STATEWIDE CREDIBILITY – LOCAL SUPPORT

Chapter Model: Partnering with industry
The CICC chapter model is designed to support and connect students with employers in the geographic areas in which they live. Our chapters are trade associations or other business organizations that directly support their local schools. This support includes funding, industry involvement – such as guest speakers, job shadowing and site visits – and job placement opportunities within their member companies.
Satellite Schools
Satellite schools are rural schools that are not located near a chapter sponsor. These schools are directly supported by CICC.