Subcontractor Training (In Person)
A free, in-person training program designed to help Chicago trade subcontractors strengthen operations, improve estimating and bidding readiness, and execute work with confidence.
Free program through 1901CIC (nonprofit)
In-person training in Chicago
Intake interview places you into the right level
Who This Program Is For
This program is for trade-specific subcontractors operating in Chicago who want to improve how their business runs and how their work is delivered on-site. Whether you are building your foundation or tightening an existing operation, the goal is the same: be ready to pursue opportunities and execute work reliably. This program is for trade-specific subcontractors operating in Chicago who want to improve how their business runs and how their work is delivered on-site. Whether you are building your foundation or tightening an existing operation, the goal is the same: be ready to pursue opportunities and execute work reliably.
Examples include (not limited to):
- Trade subcontractors and specialty contractors (all trades)
- Owners, operators, or key leadership responsible for estimating, project execution, or compliance
- Businesses seeking to improve estimating, job costing, documentation, safety readiness, and project management
Eligibility:
- Company operating in Chicago
- 18 years or older
Cost and Location
- Cost: No cost. This is a free program run by the nonprofit 1901CIC.
- Training location: 1901CIC Main Office, 2127 W Madison St, Unit 1W, Chicago, Illinois 60612
What You Will Walk Away With
- Estimate and bid with more consistency and clarity
- Track job costs and understand basic job profitability drivers
- Use practical systems to manage projects, paperwork, and communication
- Improve safety readiness and day-to-day compliance habits
- Increase operational discipline so work is executed on time and with fewer preventable issues
How it Works
All classes are in person. No online classes at this time.
Attendance: Participants receive a level card (color-coded) used for in-person check-in and attendance tracking (scan-in).
Curriculum Overview
Training is designed around real-world subcontractor needs. Topics may include:
Business Foundations
- Legal fundamentals for construction businesses (high-level)
- Accounting fundamentals and bookkeeping habits
- Estimating and bidding fundamentals
Operations and Execution
- Safety readiness and jobsite expectations
- Project management execution
- Communication routines, documentation, and file organization
Software and Tools
- Core software used to estimate, track, and manage work (as applicable)
- Tools and processes that reduce rework and improve consistency
Training Levels (Placement)
After you apply, an intake interview helps determine your starting level so you are placed into the most appropriate group. Levels are color-coded to make placement and progress simple and consistent.
Level 1
New and emerging contractors and subcontractors.
Best for firms building the foundation: business structure, estimating habits, documentation, and day-to-day readiness.
Level 2
Early-stage but actively operating firms building core technical and administrative systems.
Focused on strengthening core technical processes and admin workflows to support consistent execution.
Level 3
Stable, compliant, performance-proven firms.
Built for contractors who want to tighten operations, improve reporting and controls, and scale with confidence.
Level 4
High-performing firms.
Designed for advanced execution, leadership development, and maintaining strong performance as opportunities grow.
FAQs
Trade subcontractors operating in Chicago. Applicants must be 18 or older.
There is no cost. This is a free program run by the nonprofit 1901CIC.
Trade subcontractors operating in Chicago. Applicants must be 18 or older.
You will be contacted for an intake interview. After intake, you will be placed into the appropriate level and assigned to in-person classes.
Both newer and established subcontractors can apply. Intake helps determine the right starting level.
Training is designed to improve readiness and execution. Participation does not guarantee contracts, but it strengthens professionalism and preparedness.