Amidst a period where projects may have experienced a slowdown, it is opportune to explore the training opportunities provided by the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT). The Iowa DOT Technical Training and Certification Program offers a variety of training formats, accommodating both in-person and virtual sessions. Construction in Training (CIT) funding is available for DBE companies, providing reimbursement for their training endeavors. It’s worth mentioning that most DOT classes fall under the CIT funding umbrella.
For comprehensive information and access to these training opportunities, visit the Iowa DOT Construction and Materials Training website: https://iowadot.gov/training/
If you have any inquiries regarding classes or certifications, reach out to Brian Squier, the Iowa DOT Training Specialist. You can contact him via email at brian.squier@iowadot.us or by phone at 515-233-7915.
Additionally, there are educational classes and certifications available through external providers such as AGC, MBI, etc. Check with Danny Wagener danny.wagener@iowadot.us to determine eligibility for CIT funding that may cover these programs. Familiarize yourself with the CIT funding reimbursement steps which are included in this newsletter.
Stay proactive in enhancing your skills and qualifications with the support of available resources!
Below are two frequently asked questions about the funding or the process:
1. If eligible companies attend this workshop, is there a restriction on how many may attend? Is there a dollar limit on what they can request?
There is no limit for attendees. Funds are first come first serve, and there is not really a dollar limit cap (unless the funding has been used up.)
2. How quick is the turnaround once we request fund reimbursement? Will it go to us, or to the source that requires the fee?
After the class has taken place and the eligible contractor has paid the trainer, you submit the required documentation to Danny Wagener, and he will process the reimbursement and submit it to Finance. Turnaround should be 7 – 10 days, but if the firm is not a vendor in our system, they will need to submit a W-9 and have a vendor profile created in order to get paid and this could take 10 – 14 days.
For more information, contact Mary Zimmerman at maryz@iastate.edu or 515-450-1278.