Agency Employ & Econ Development Dept

Contractor Cement Masons-Plasterers-Shophands Local 633, Journeyman & Apprenticeship Training Trust Fund

SWIFT Contract Number 267888

Project Name MnDOT/ DEED Highway Heavy Construction Training Program

Project Number (if applicable) {Empty}

Summarize purpose of the contract, including why it was necessary: The purpose of this contract is to deliver highly specialized and industry-aligned training in the Cement Masons trade, tailored to meet the workforce demands of the highway heavy construction sector. This training is critical to addressing persistent labor shortages and building a pipeline of qualified workers equipped with the technical expertise, certifications, and hands-on experience necessary for success on complex infrastructure projects. Cement Masons close collaboration with labor unions, contractors, and public agencies has resulted in a proven track record of preparing individuals, particularly from underrepresented communities, for long-term careers as Cement Masons and Laborers. This program plays an essential role in closing skills gaps, increasing diversity in the trades, and strengthening the capacity of Minnesota’s construction workforce.

Project Duration

Start Date Mon, 04/21/2025 - 00:00

Original end date Tue, 06/24/2025 - 00:00

Actual end date Tue, 06/24/2025 - 00:00

Did project finish on time? Yes

Total billable hours utilized (if applicable) {Empty}

Contract Amounts

Original contract: $149825.00

Amendments {Empty}

Contract total $110732.21

Did project finish within budget? Yes

What was the funding source? Federal

Is this a sole source contract? Yes

If this was a single source contract, explain why the agency determined there was only a single source for the services (if applicable) This procurement is classified as a single-source due to the unique and exclusive qualifications of the Minnesota Cement Masons-Plasterers-Shophands Local 633 Journeyman & Apprenticeship Training for the Highway Heavy Construction Training Program’s Cement Masons trade instruction.

This is not based on preference, prior relationships, or convenience. Rather, it is necessitated by the provider’s exclusive legal and professional standing as the only training provider in Minnesota certified to deliver union-recognized, state-registered pre-apprenticeship training specifically for Cement Masons. This certification is issued and recognized by the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry. It’s important to understand that each union is responsible for delivering training aligned with its own trade jurisdiction. For example, the training provided by the Laborers’ Union is distinct from that of the Bricklayers or Cement Masons and cannot be substituted across trades.

In this case, the Cement Masons’ union delivers highly specialized training tailored to the skills and requirements of highway heavy construction—a program that no other union or non-union provider in the state is authorized or equipped to deliver. Non-union training providers are not recognized by union contractors, meaning their participants are generally ineligible for union apprenticeship registration or placement on union job sites. The Cement Masons’ training program is directly connected to union contractors and employers, offering participants a supported and credentialed pathway into apprenticeship and long-term employment within the industry. For these reasons, the Cement Masons JATC is the only appropriate and eligible provider for this type of work in Minnesota.

The Cement Masons Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (JATC) is uniquely positioned to fulfill this contract not only due to its accreditation, but also due to its control of specialized training infrastructure. The organization operates a purpose-built, 20,000-square-foot training facility in New Brighton, Minnesota—featuring 15,000 square feet of dedicated hands-on training space, multiple classrooms, and equipment aligned with industry safety and environmental standards. This infrastructure is essential to replicating field conditions and preparing participants for immediate employment in public infrastructure projects.

This single-source procurement is further supported by the strategic alignment of the Cement Masons, Plasterers & Shophands Local 633 JATC with MnDOT and DEED’s workforce development model, which prioritizes equity, credentialed career pathways, and industry-specific readiness. Local 633 is the only training provider in Minnesota certified to deliver union-recognized, state-registered pre-apprenticeship training specifically for Cement Masons. Their program is uniquely tailored to the needs of the highway heavy construction sector and operates under a distinct trade jurisdiction that cannot be fulfilled by other unions or non-union providers. While Minnesota law does not prohibit out-of-state programs from operating, those providers would need to register with the U.S. Department of Labor and meet additional state requirements—and they do not hold the local authority or employer relationships necessary for meaningful placement within Minnesota’s union construction industry. The Cement Masons’ training program is directly connected to union contractors and job sites, offering participants a clear pathway into registered apprenticeship and long-term employment. As such, this provider is not interchangeable with other vendors and is the only appropriate and eligible entity to deliver these services in Minnesota.

Evaluator Name Jeremiah Carter

Evaluator Email Address jeremiah.carter@state.mn.us

Evaluate the contractor's timeliness The Cement Masons, Plasterers & Shophands Local 633 JATC demonstrated strong timeliness throughout the contract period. The contractor adhered to the agreed-upon training schedule, delivering the full 250-hour, five-week training program as outlined in the scope of work. Sessions began and concluded on time, with training running Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., as planned.

The contractor was responsive to communication, met all critical deadlines, and provided timely updates as requested by DEED and MnDOT staff. Additionally, they submitted the final completion report and performance documentation within the required timeframe following program completion. No delays were reported, and the contractor consistently fulfilled their duties in a timely and organized manner.

Evaluate the contractor's quality The Cement Masons, Plasterers & Shophands Local 633 JATC delivered high-quality services that met and exceeded contract expectations. The training program was industry-aligned, union-recognized, and tailored to the technical and safety standards required for success in the highway heavy construction sector.

Participants received instruction from experienced, union-certified trainers using up-to-date equipment and materials in a state-of-the-art facility. The curriculum covered a wide range of essential competencies, from OSHA 30 certification and blueprint reading to concrete formwork and tool proficiency, ensuring participants were job-site ready upon completion.

The contractor maintained high instructional standards and incorporated employer and union engagement throughout the training, enhancing the program’s relevance and effectiveness. Feedback from stakeholders and the successful transition of participants into apprenticeship pathways reflect the contractor’s commitment to delivering excellent outcomes.

Evaluate the contractor's cost The contractor’s cost performance was highly satisfactory. Although the contract authorized up to $149,825, the final invoiced amount was $110,732.21, demonstrating fiscal responsibility and efficient program delivery under budget. This cost included all planned training components, such as 250 hours of instruction, hands-on concrete work, OSHA certifications, and use of a specialized union training facility, without sacrificing quality or scope.

The pricing structure was based on historical data from prior cohorts and adjusted to reflect current instructional and operational needs. The contractor’s ability to deliver a high-impact, union-recognized training program at a cost well below the contract ceiling reflects strong stewardship of public funds and a commitment to maximizing value.

Evaluate the contractor's overall performance The overall performance of the Cement Masons, Plasterers & Shophands Local 633 JATC was excellent. The contractor successfully delivered a high-quality, union-recognized training program that aligned with MnDOT and DEED’s workforce development goals, specifically, preparing individuals from underrepresented communities for long-term careers in highway heavy construction.

The training was delivered on schedule, under budget, and to a high standard of instructional quality. Participants received a well-rounded education that included technical skill-building, job readiness, safety certifications (OSHA 30 and CPR/AED), and engagement with union and industry partners. Program oversight and communication with state project staff were consistent and professional throughout the contract period.

The contractor also provided all required performance documentation, including completion reports and participant outcomes, in a timely and thorough manner. Their ability to deliver strong results while maintaining cost-efficiency and responsiveness reflects a high level of organizational capacity and programmatic integrity.

Would you engage the contractor's services again? Yes

Describe any negative action taken during the duration of this contract (i.e., termination, pursuit of suspension, etc.): No negative actions were taken during the duration of this contract. The contractor fulfilled all obligations in accordance with the agreed terms. There were no issues requiring corrective action, suspension, termination, or other formal intervention. The contract proceeded smoothly from execution through completion, with full cooperation and compliance from the contractor at every stage.

Please rate the overall experience with the contractor 5 - very satisfied