By Jeremy Maready
The Ledger
June 12, 2006
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Builders, prepare to get schooled: the Florida Home Builders Association is expanding its online education.

The association has partnered with Building Media and the Code College Initiative to offer video training for builders and trades professionals to learn current practices on building codes, energy efficiency, building science, water intrusion and mold.

"The state association is always looking and willing to try new, cutting edge technology," said Scott Coulombe, executive officer for the Polk County Builders Association.

The new instruction services are free to FHBA members by logging on at www.codecollegenetwork.com/fl or by accessing the code college link on the FHBA Web site at www.fhba.com.

The training becomes important to builders, especially at this time of year, as August's licensing renewal deadline nears. The training/licensing runs in two-year cycles. During that time, builders must have completed at least 14 hours of training, including the requirements of education in worker's compensation, insurance and business management.

"Florida is one of the most stringent (on training) with that," he said. "But this makes it so accessible. We are very big on education. This industry is always changing."

To further help builders receive the necessary last minute training, PCBA will be offering a business plan workshop from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday at the PCBA offices, located at 2232 Heritage Drive. Spaces are still available and cost $135 for members and $160 for non-members.

"After August, we will regroup for the next cycle for renewal," Coulombe said.

For more information on the workshop, call PCBA at 665-0844.