PBSC launches construction and health science programs to meet industry demands

New degree and certificate programs in construction and the health sciences are slated to begin this fall term at Palm Beach State College to meet industry hiring demands. Classes begin August 23.

With the Building Construction Management Associate in Science degree and related certificate, Palm Beach State aims to bring much-needed new talent into the growing construction industry to replenish its rapidly aging workforce. In the health sciences, the A.S. degree and certificate programs in Health Services Management, Surgical Services and Medical Assisting will provide employers with the better-prepared workforce needed to handle the increasing complexities of health care delivery.  

Building Construction Programs
The Building Construction Management A.S. degree and Building Construction Specialist College Credit Certificate focus on managing the construction process and high-demand knowledge and skills in construction materials and methods, cost estimating, scheduling and planning, building information modeling, site logistics and more. The A.S. degree includes a summer internship, and the CCC is designed for those who already have a degree and need a faster route to employment.   

“We identified with our construction industry partners that there was a gap in quality candidates for entry-level management positions and used their guidance to develop the curriculum,” said Thomas Gauthier, Ed.D., associate dean for Industrial and Technical programs. “In a sense, these are the industry’s programs. When students graduate, they will have the competencies necessary to launch a successful career in construction management.”  

Dale Hedrick, founder and CEO of Hedrick Brothers Construction, likes the industry experience of Palm Beach State’s faculty and staff, as well as the College’s affordability.  

“These programs offer an incredible opportunity for the next generation to learn this valuable knowledge from skilled members of the construction industry,” Hedrick said. “Palm Beach State College is filling a tremendous need to train and educate a workforce that will be the future of our industry.” 

The timing is right for students, too. According to Robert Smithwick, executive vice president of operations for Kolter Homes, Florida is the best state for home construction. 

 “This is a great industry. It’s tangible, and financially I think it’s one of the stronger industries that you can go into,” Smithwick said. “With PBSC’s programs, our intent is to rebuild our bench strength and give local students the chance to start and grow a career right where they grew up.”  

For more information about the construction programs, visit www.palmbeachstate.edu/career-pathways/pathway-industry. To find details on upcoming information sessions, go to palmbeachstate.campuslabs.com/Engage and search for “construction.”

For more information about the construction programs, visit www.palmbeachstate.edu/career-pathways/pathway-industry. To find details on upcoming information sessions, go to palmbeachstate.campuslabs.com/Engage and search for “construction.”