The Kleinfelder Blog

In August 2020, Kleinfelder launched an advanced training and certification program to enhance the firm’s execution of Alternate Project Delivery (APD) methods through innovation, quality deliverables, and on-time services.

A 2018 survey commissioned by the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA), predicted APD methods, including but not limited to Design-Build (DB), Progressive Design-Build (PDB), Construction Management/General Contractor (CM/GC), Construction Management at Risk (CMAR), and Public Private Partnerships (P3) which include DB, will account for approximately 44% of all project delivery in the US in 2021. As the complexity, size, and scope of these projects grow, the project risks also increase, making project execution and the project manager’s responsibilities very demanding.

Kleinfelder’s Alternate Delivery Project Management Training and Certification Program prepares project managers to meet the demands of APD projects. “Ultimately, our goal is to better serve our clients,” explained Bill Hasbrook, Kleinfelder Client Account Manager and a key developer of the program. “By providing our project managers with advanced APD training, we prepare them to deliver projects more efficiently in both cost and schedule, lower project risk, and apply the best methods to achieve the owner’s desired outcome.”

Kleinfelder’s program was initially offered to a select group of 21 project managers with experience on APD and/or other complex projects and a diverse market focus covering transportation, water, energy, federal, and other private infrastructure. The goal was to pilot the program with staff that could immediately add value to ongoing project work upon completion of the program.

Divided into four phases, the program involves: (I) completing DBIA reading materials and detailed examination; (II) attending Kleinfelder virtual conferences; (III) taking the formal DBIA training course; and (IV) completing the certification process, including examination.

To date, the program has proven successful, with five participants having graduated from the program and the remainder either entering or finishing up phase IV. Project Manager Charlie Tripp (Westborough, MA office) was the first to successfully complete the entire program, having received his Associate DBIA credential in December 2020. Shortly after, Project/Program Managers Nabil Haddad (Denver, CO), Joe Wojnas (Springfield, MA), Michael Cunningham (Boston, MA), and Thomas Wells (Greensboro) also received their DBIA certifications. As others complete phase IV testing, Kleinfelder anticipates the remainder of the participants to be credentialed by February.

Kleinfelder’s Alternate Delivery Project Management Training and Certification Program marks a substantial investment of time, money, and resources. However, by investing in the development and advancement of project managers, the firm further positions itself to meet client/project needs and address the APD challenges of the future.