Aci, Tca Certify 800-Plus Tilt-Up Practitioners

The Tilt-Up Concrete Association and American Concrete Institute report that as of mid-September, their joint program has seen 169 Supervisor and 646

The Tilt-Up Concrete Association and American Concrete Institute report that as of mid-September, their joint program has seen 169 Supervisor and 646 Technician certifications in the U.S. and Canada. The number of certified professionals has increased by more than 100 since 2005. Developed through ACI Committee 650, the certification program is designed to recognize the tilt-up concrete construction method and maintain its professionalism. The exam is now offered in Spanish to further increase program participation.

During 2005, use of the site cast tilt-up method increased 13 percent, says TCA Technical Director Jim Baty. The increasing use is directly related to the rise in the number of certified personnel. Tilt-up professionals recognize the benefit of outside validation of their knowledge and experience in the industry, and this certification program sets clear professional standards that ensure consistency and quality throughout North America. Also, design professionals wanting their projects to stand apart from others in quality and performance are driving the trend toward certification.

Full certification as a Tilt-Up Supervisor requires a passing score on the exam (70 percent) and a minimum of five years (7,500 hours) of verifiable construction experience, of which at least three years (4,500 hours) shall be as a lead or assistant supervisor, as well as a demonstrated proficiency in and an understanding of overall on-site administrative and technical management for producing tilt-up projects. Those lacking the sufficient work experience to qualify may become certified as a Technician by successful completion of the same written examination. The examination consists of approximately 80 multiple-choice questions. Certifications carry five years.

A certified Technician may upgrade to Supervisor status within five years of his or her certification through the completion of necessary work experience. The program requires knowledge in safety, plan reading, scheduling, site preparation and foundations, slabs-on-grade, layout, forming, placement and properties, erection, and structural systems. Certification exam offerings are scheduled for:

  • Oct. 26, Hartford, Conn.
  • Nov. 21, St. Louis
  • Nov. 30, San Antonio, Texas
  • Dec. 1, Austin, Texas
  • Dec. 7 & 8, Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.

Each of these locations will also offer the certification seminar that serves as an introduction and refresher course to many tilt-up construction concepts. Cost for the Certification exam is $145 for TCA members and $215 for nonmembers. Recommended study materials include the ACI Tilt-Up Certification Manual and the 6th edition Tilt-Up Construction and Engineering Manual, both available through TCA. TCA offers a standard three-part specification for tilt-up construction that adds the importance of certified supervision to the project. Additional information can be obtained from TCA, www.tilt-up.org; 319/895-6911.