MACC Tech, which stands for “Mining, Asphalt, Concrete and Construction Technology” is a 12-point industry credential that was approved by the Ohio Department of Education in 2019. As a region, this is a critical development for the industry, as the goal of MACC Tech is to provide career-advancing opportunities to encourage more young people to pursue careers in the industry.
MACC Tech introduces juniors and seniors in High School to the many exciting and great-paying career opportunities in the construction industry. Upon completion of this curriculum, high school graduates are awarded the MACC Tech Industry Credential, signaling that they have completed the necessary courses and applied lessons to be considered for immediate employment in associated career paths, including Aggregates, Asphalt, Concrete, Construction, Transportation, Engineering, and Manufacturing.
MACC Tech provides a broad base of knowledge beginning with safety, basic aggregate production, moving on to building materials like asphalt and concrete and finishing with basic construction equipment and techniques. Along the way, students are exposed to the many ancillary career paths associated with the entire construction and materials industry. Students work with industry professionals who, whenever possible, are participating in the training and instruction in their fields. Additionally, by providing fundamental skill training through SkillsUSA Ohio (or like program), students obtain the “soft skills” needed to pursue a successful career, regardless of career path.
MACC Tech requires teachers in participating schools to source their own supplemental materials to deliver in the classroom. These resources are likely already available from varying associations and companies. The goal of this initiative would be to source national resources for roughly 80% of MACC Tech, leaving 15-20% of the materials available for customization based on each states’ specific Department of Education requirements. In the end, this ensures more teachers will be able to implement MACC Tech and, as such, more students are ready to enter the workforce.
MACC Tech is currently approved for use in schools in Ohio and is in the process of being approved in Kentucky. It is our goal as MACC Tech advocates to support state-by-state approval and implementation of MACC Tech.
