June 2, 2020—With the advent of COVID-19 restrictions and many practical examiners’ accreditations expiring, NCCCO’s practical examiner accreditation team conducted its first “virtual” refresher workshops. Using Internet-based video conferencing participants were able to interact with the presenters and reaccredit without needing to travel a physical workshop location.
On May 13–15, 2020, the PE Accreditation Team presented all three refresher workshops—Signalperson, Rigger, and Operator Programs—from the training room of NCCCO’s Utah Office using GoToMeeting software. The workshops were attended by 11, 8, and 10 attendees (respectively).
Applicants received comprehensive instructions and were able to test their equipment in advance, so the technical issues experienced by attendees were minor. On a scale of 1–5, the workshops received ratings of 4 to 5 in all categories.
This has proven to be an efficient and cost-effective method of delivering NCCCO’s refresher workshops. Although attendees had to pay the same fees as for regular workshops, they expressed appreciation for the opportunity to stay home and save on travel costs.