What is NCCER ATS Sponsorship?

NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research) Accredited Training Sponsor (ATS) status allows organizations—such as contractors, trade associations, educational institutions, or government agencies—to deliver NCCER’s standardized, modular training programs in construction crafts and issue portable, industry-recognized credentials. ATS organizations oversee training at registered locations (Training Units), ensure compliance with NCCER standards, and manage certified personnel for instruction and assessments.

How NCCER ATS Sponsorship Works

1. Eligibility and Application Process Organizations must operate for at least 12 months, maintain a commercial business address, and possess suitable facilities and equipment. They submit an application with proof of business existence, three letters of recommendation, an organizational chart, facility photos, and an integrity agreement. Educational institutions provide additional documentation like accreditation and job placement data. A non-refundable fee applies after initial approval.
2. Key Roles and Training A designated Sponsor Representative (primary liaison) and optional Secondary Representative complete NCCER-required training on policies, procedures, and systems. They handle accreditation maintenance, audits, recordkeeping, and communications.
3. Accreditation Status and Audits Status progresses from Applicant → Candidate → Accredited after a successful initial audit (typically 6-12 months after candidacy). NCCER conducts reaccreditation audits every three years, plus potential for-cause audits. Organizations pay annual maintenance fees (due January) and maintain good financial standing; non-compliance risks suspension or revocation.
4. Training Delivery ATS organizations use official NCCER curricula (competency-based modules) accessed via the Instructor Resource Center. They register Training Units (TUs) with memorandums of understanding (MOUs) and audits. Certified instructors teach, and qualified evaluators handle hands-on performance profiles.
5. Assessments and Credentialing Trainees take proctored module tests (70% passing score) and performance evaluations via the NCCER Testing System. Successful completions enter the NCCER Registry, issuing digital badges, certificates, transcripts, and wallet cards. Credentials remain portable across employers and locations.
6. Compliance and Policies ATS organizations follow strict rules on security, record retention (3+ years), anti-cheating measures, accommodations, and internal policies (e.g., drug-free workplace). Violations trigger penalties, up to revocation and loss of credentials.

Services and Benefits Available to ATS Organizations

NCCER provides these key services and benefits to accredited sponsors:

• Access to Resources — Standardized curricula, lesson plans, and materials through the Instructor Resource Center and Learning Management System (LMS).
• Testing and Registry Systems — Secure online platforms for administering assessments, recording results, and managing credentials (including transcripts, digital badges, and wallet cards).
• Personnel Certification — Training and certification programs for instructors, proctors, performance evaluators, and support roles (e.g., Instructor Certification Training Program).
• Support and Oversight — Audit guidance, compliance assistance, appeals processes, and customer support. International ATS receive additional oversight options.
• Industry Recognition — Use of NCCER’s brand for portable, verifiable credentials that enhance workforce mobility and employer trust.
• Networking and Tools — Inclusion in NCCER’s network directory, plus resources for workforce development, recruitment, and retention.

Note: The detailed guidelines are from NCCER’s 2022 ATS document (latest publicly referenced as of available data). Policies may have updates since then. For the most current information, application details, or fees, visit nccer.org or contact NCCER support directly.