In response to the ongoing labor shortage in the construction industry, Tonn and Blank Construction has taken a proactive approach by launching the PNW Pathway Program in collaboration with Purdue University Northwest (PNW). This innovative professional development initiative, started in 2021, is designed to bridge the gap between skilled labor and advanced educational opportunities.

The PNW Pathway Program allows students to transfer credits from associate degrees earned through Ivy Tech Community College’s apprenticeship programs towards a Purdue degree. Upon completion, participants earn a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership and Supervision (OLS), enhancing their career prospects and providing them with a competitive edge in the workforce.

Program Success and Expansion

Officially launched in January 2021, the PNW Pathway Program has already made significant strides. Sixteen team members from Tonn and Blank initially enrolled, working towards their degrees. The company has offered this initiative to all its office locations, providing career development opportunities for leadership roles within the organization.

Industry Impact

Recently, Tonn and Blank hosted a groundbreaking webinar to discuss the transformative impact of the PNW Pathway Program. During this event, AGCI member Tonn and Blank shared their experiences, highlighting how the program has enhanced workforce dynamics and elevated organizational leadership skills.

Jacob Wheeler, Director of Safety at Tonn and Blank, shared his personal journey: “The experience has been tremendous. I never thought I would be going back to school in my late forties and graduating college at 49 years old! The professors and staff at Purdue University Northwest made the transition back into learning so easy for us. Not only do we have the 20 plus years of field experience, but we also all now have the degree to go with it.”

A Vision for the Future

The PNW Pathway Program is designed to create well-rounded leaders by combining practical experience with advanced education. Chandramouli Viswanathan Chandramouli, Professor and Chair in the Construction Science and Organizational Leadership Department at PNW, emphasized the importance of this initiative: “This program aims to take individuals who have honed their skills through apprenticeship and give them the educational foundation needed to excel in leadership roles. It’s about creating the perfect superintendent – someone with both hands-on experience and academic knowledge.”

The program’s structure allows for flexibility, accommodating tradespeople’s schedules and enabling them to complete their degrees within two to three years. The coursework focuses on safety, leadership, supervision, construction management, and general education, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience.

A Game Changer for the Industry

Tonn and Blank’s commitment to this program reflects its dedication to the growth and development of its employees and the broader construction industry. By supporting this educational pathway, Tonn and Blank aims to produce highly skilled superintendents who understand both the technical and managerial aspects of construction.

The first cohort of the PNW Pathway Program has officially graduated (Spring 2024), marking a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing efforts to address the labor shortage and enhance the skill set of its workforce. Tonn and Blank encourages other union workers in Indiana to take advantage of this unique opportunity, emphasizing that investing in education benefits the entire industry.

Congratulations and job well done to Dereck, Jon, Tim, Rick, Brian, Jake and David! We are so proud of you all for balancing your personal lives, professional lives and your continued education without missing a beat.