What We Do

At First Forward, we design practical, customized solutions that meet your team where they are—and move them forward. Whether you’re building new leaders, launching a training initiative, or navigating industry challenges, our services are built to deliver real-world results.

208 union computer lab classroom

Leadership Development & Coaching

We help individuals and teams grow with hands-on training that’s grounded in real industry experience—not theory.

Offerings include:

  • Leadership training programs and individual courses
  • Executive, project manager, and administrative coaching
  • Emotional intelligence and communication workshops
  • Emerging leader development and succession planning

Instructor Training & Support

Great instruction starts with great preparation. We work with instructors across the industry to build confidence, clarity, and classroom-ready tools.

Offerings include:

  • JATC, MCA, and foreman instructor training
  • Subject matter expert (SME) development
  • Instructional coaching and support
  • Onboarding and mentoring program design

Training Program & Curriculum Design

We design programs from the ground up—or help strengthen what you already have—with custom content built for your audience.

Offerings include:

  • Custom curriculum and class development (leadership & technical)
  • Full-scale training program design and implementation
  • Workshop series creation and facilitation
  • Trade-relevant curriculum development for unions and apprenticeship programs

Financial & Business Training

With decades of finance and executive leadership experience, we bring financial concepts down to earth—and into the field.

Offerings include:

  • Construction finance fundamentals
  • Budgeting and forecasting for project managers
  • Business literacy for field leaders
  • Financial leadership coaching

Speaking Engagements & Events

Looking for a dynamic, real-world voice for your next event? First Forward delivers keynotes and breakout sessions that are insightful, actionable, and industry-aligned.

Topics include:

  • Leadership in the trades
  • Communication that drives results
  • Equity in construction and beyond
  • Custom presentations available by request
208 Union member reading a workbook

Assessments & Insights

As a certified partner in a wide range of leading assessment tools, First Forward brings depth and data to leadership development.

Available Assessments:

  • DISC
  • Emotional Intelligence (EQ)
  • Motivators
  • Hogan Personality Inventory
  • CheckPoint 360°
  • CliftonStrengths (StrengthsFinder)

Assessments are available as standalone services or integrated into coaching, team development, and training programs.

Let's build something that works

Every organization is different. Let’s create a custom solution that fits yours. Contact us to get started.