What Is It Known For?
ABC Baton Rouge was founded in 1950 as part of a broader effort to support and develop Louisiana’s construction workforce. Over the years, it has grown into both a professional construction association and a top-tier training facility, equipping students with the skills needed for success in the industry. The organization represents a network of general contractors, suppliers, specialty contractors, and industry professionals working together to strengthen the state’s construction sector.
With two training centers in Baton Rouge and Westlake, ABC Pelican trains more than 2,000 students annually. And while enrollment numbers vary by location, both campuses provide hands-on instruction and industry-relevant coursework to prepare students for careers in construction.
Degrees & Certifications
The ABC Pelican Baton Rouge Training Center provides hands-on instruction in essential construction trades. Students can develop specialized skills through a selection of craft courses designed to prepare them for careers in the industry.
The programs offered here include:
- CORE
- Millwright
- Electrical
- Heavy Equipment Operator
- Mobile Crane Operator
- Instrumentation
- Welding
- Pipefitting
In addition to craft training, the school offers Supervisory Courses and skill assessments to help professionals advance in their careers.
Class Schedules
ABC Pelican Baton Rouge offers both day and night classes to accommodate different schedules. Regular evening classes run Monday through Thursday from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., while an afternoon welding class is available from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on the same days.
Since training is hands-on, the school does not offer online courses or externships. Students gain practical experience directly through their coursework and lab-based instruction.
Is It a Good School?
Yes. ABC Pelican Baton Rouge is well-respected in the industry and is accredited by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), a leading authority for construction training.
Acceptance Rate
There is no available information on the acceptance rate at ABC Pelican Baton Rouge.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Tuition at ABC Pelican Baton Rouge varies based on your membership status. Here’s an overview of the costs per semester for most courses:
- GBRIA/ICC Members: $300
- Pelican Chapter Members: $450
- Non-Members: $600
However, some programs have different rates. For instance, the welding program costs $900 for Pelican Chapter members and $1,600 for non-members. Supervisory courses are priced higher than most others. Since rates can differ, it is best to contact the school directly for specific tuition details, as there is no online net price calculator available.
Programs & Courses
Skilled Trades
- Safety Training
- Construction
Campus Locations
Baton Rouge 19251 Highland Road - Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Reviews
Based on reviews in Google, the Pelican Chapter Associated Builders & Contractors, Inc. (ABC) Training Institute is a highly respected and affordable industry-focused trade school that provides essential, recognized training (NCCER and AWS) for careers in the construction trades, such as welding and electrical.
Overall Score: 4.4/5 Stars
Common Praises
Industry-Recognized Credentials: The primary strength of the school is its focus on National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) and American Welding Society (AWS) standards. Students are trained to earn credentials that are often required by contractors and industrial plants in the area, leading to high employability.
Effective Skill Development: Graduates frequently praise the programs, with many stating they “love it” and have “improved [their] skills so much in a short time” in trades like welding and electrical. The knowledge gained is described as a “game changer.”
Affordable and Accessible Schedule: The school is noted for its low tuition costs (especially for sponsored employees) and convenient after-work class times (typically 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., two nights per week). This schedule allows students to earn credentials without missing work hours.
Dedicated Instructors and Hands-On Focus: Many reviewers praise the “great instructors” and friendly staff who are willing to help, particularly with hands-on skills like welding. The training centers are noted as “nice and well kept.”
Common Criticisms
Inconsistent Instructor Quality: There are complaints that the “main instructor” in one program (Welding) was “really rude and doesn’t help much,” suggesting that the quality of instruction can be inconsistent depending on the person.
Administrative and Policy Issues: A reviewer found the receptionist to be rude and noted issues with testing, including blurry online test materials and an inaccurate test timer that shut down prematurely.
Rigid Program Structure: One reviewer noted that a student “can’t test ahead if you already know something,” suggesting a lack of flexibility for experienced workers who only need certification or advanced training.
Facility Age: A minor complaint suggests the shop facility “Needs to be updated.”
Momentum
The momentum for ABC Pelican Chapter is very strong and positive. The school is deeply integrated with local industry, evidenced by its sponsorship model, high capacity enrollment (over 1,400 students enrolled in 2013), and the fact that “almost all students who graduate, find a construction craft job immediately.” Its strength lies in being the premier, industry-driven training facility in the Baton Rouge area, successfully maintaining a reputation for producing job-ready craft professionals.