New Short-Term Certificates and Flexible Learning Options Address Statewide Workforce Shortage
Salem, Ore., March 18, 2025 — Chemeketa Community College’s nationally recognized Building Inspection Technology (BIT) program has opened registration for its Fall 2025 cohort, providing essential training for the next generation of building safety and code professionals. With an increasing statewide demand for skilled inspectors, plans examiners, and permit technicians, Chemeketa is committed to filling this critical workforce gap with highly trained graduates.
A Growing Industry Need
Oregon faces a shortage of qualified building code professionals, with 165 new positions needing to be filled annually due to retirements and vacancies, according to the Oregon Department of Education (ODE). At the same time, the state is experiencing a significant housing shortfall, requiring 36,000 new housing units annually for the next decade—far exceeding the current output of 22,000 units in a strong year. Code professionals play a pivotal role in addressing this crisis by ensuring new construction meets safety, energy efficiency, and accessibility standards.
High-Demand Careers with Competitive Salaries
Graduates of Chemeketa’s BIT program are highly sought after by jurisdictions across Oregon due to the program’s rigorous training and minimal onboarding time. Code professionals enjoy family-wage salaries, averaging from $57,000 to $111,000 annually, with comprehensive benefits including retirement plans, health insurance, and paid time off. The field offers a rewarding career with meaningful work, providing a blend of mental engagement and physical ease—an ideal path for those with construction experience, design professionals, and retired military personnel.
New Short-Term Certificates Provide Fast-Track to Employment
In response to industry needs, Chemeketa is introducing three new short-term certificates, designed to provide a direct pathway into the workforce or additional training for those already employed:
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Permit Technician Certificate (8 credits, 1 term)
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Residential Plans Examiner Certificate (17 credits, 2 terms)
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Residential Building Inspector Certificate (17 credits, 2 terms)
These certificates offer an expedited route to employment while allowing students to seamlessly transition into Chemeketa’s Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree in Building Inspection Technology, one of the few fully accredited programs of its kind in the nation.
Nationally Recognized, Flexible Program
Chemeketa’s BIT program has earned national recognition, including the 2021 ICC Chapter Merit Award and the 2023 ICC Raising the Profile Award, solidifying its status as a premier training institution. Established in 1978, the program has a long history of producing top-tier graduates who contribute to the safety and sustainability of the built environment.
Designed for working professionals, the program offers evening, remote-format classes that can be attended from anywhere, with live instruction and flexible accommodations for remote students. The only in-person components include a required lab and Cooperative Work Experience (CWE) internship.
Registration Opens February 18, 2025
Those interested in joining this dynamic and rewarding profession can apply for the Fall 2025 cohort now.
For more information, visit go.chemeketa.edu/buildinginspection
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For more than 50 years, Chemeketa Community College has committed itself to transforming lives and our community through exceptional learning experiences in the Mid-Willamette Valley. As the second multi-campus district in Oregon, Chemeketa serves 18,000 students annually at its Salem and Yamhill Valley campuses, as well as Brooks, Eola, Winema, Dallas, Woodburn and Chemeketa Center for Business and Industry (CCBI).
Chemeketa Community College is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and educational institution.
