The Mechanical Contracting Industry Council of New Jersey (MCICNJ) has held its popular Foreman Training Program for 42 years now. Field supervisors from all over the state take time out of their weekends to fill the classroom to hear contractors and other instructors offer methods by which they can become better foremen. There are four sessions, each on Saturdays and each with a different set of topics. Volunteers from the industry, contractors as well as Union officials, share their knowledge about specific topics during each session.

Session One centers on Job Organization. Instructors address every phase of the job - from material requisition to getting paid - and the important role the foreman plays in each. Benefit costs, government mandates and other less-apparent things that make labor cost more than it should are explored.

Session Two focuses on topics concerning the Office. Foremen learn about the dynamic relationship between the contractor and architect-engineer-owner. The attendees also study contract documents and explore job planning aspects ranging from management team players, project goals, related guidelines and specs, scope of work. They also learn about motivating and leading team members to complete projects successfully.

Session Three presents foremen with a discussion of Job Close-Out issues, as well as how strict safety practices can also contribute to job profits while protecting workers and the importance of maintaining a good safety record.

Session Four concentrates on labor matters and the Collective Bargaining Agreement. Legal and other aspects of local labor practices were discussed in detail by a panel of key speakers representing management, labor, law and the industry. The labor and management portion is usually handled by one of the business managers from one of New Jersey's Local Unions, an executive representative from the MCANJ, a Union Contractor, and providing the legal background is an attorney affiliated with the Association.