PHCC Project Management Class Trains Contractors in Data-Driven Decisions

FALLS CHURCH, Virginia — Project management training from the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors — National Association (PHCC) Educational Foundation focused on data-driven decision-making and early problem detection to improve job performance.

During a four-day Essentials of Project Management course held March 4–7 at Milwaukee Tool’s headquarters in Brookfield, Wisconsin, 24 attendees learned how to apply analytical skills to better manage construction projects. The program emphasized using job cost reports, labor productivity metrics, and other data points to identify issues and guide decisions.

Instructor Kirk Alter, professor emeritus at Purdue University, led participants through interactive sessions that highlighted the importance of evaluating project data and asking targeted questions. According to PHCC, this approach helps managers understand cost drivers, detect problems early, and take corrective action before issues escalate.

The course also addressed operational discipline, including conducting root cause analysis and improving processes incrementally. Participants discussed strategies for maintaining focus on key performance indicators and strengthening communication with both field teams and customers.

By the end of the program, attendees developed a framework for analyzing limited information, supporting field personnel, and making fact-based decisions. PHCC said this approach can help contractors improve efficiency, control costs, and increase overall project profitability.

Milwaukee Tool hosted and sponsored the training, supporting workforce development efforts within the trades. The PHCC Educational Foundation will hold a two-day Creating Super Foremen workshop May 1–2 at the same location, with Alter returning as instructor.

Note: This piece was created with the help of generative AI tools and edited by our content team for clarity and accuracy.