From Supervisor to Licensed Contractor: A North Carolina Success Story

For many in the construction industry, moving up the career ladder means turning years of hands-on experience into an official license. This step is a significant milestone, opening doors to new responsibilities and greater professional security. But for busy construction professionals, finding the time to study for a demanding licensing exam can seem like an impossible challenge.  

This was the exact situation for Tara Whitley, a construction supervisor in Onslow County, North Carolina, before she discovered Contractor Training Center (CTC). 

Tara's journey from a full-time supervisor to a licensed general contractor is a powerful example of how the right training program can make all the difference. Her story highlights the importance of flexibility, quality content, and expert instruction.  

By balancing her demanding job with CTC’s self-paced NASCLA Commercial Builder Exam Prep program, she not only passed the rigorous exam on her first try but also secured a significant promotion and a brighter future in her field. 

How Tara Found the Perfect Contractor Licensing Program 

When Tara decided to pursue her general contractor's license in 2022, she knew she needed a program that could accommodate her schedule. Working full-time in residential construction supervision left her with limited time for studying. Her search for a training provider led her to research several options, but Contractor Training Center stood out for its accessibility and value. 

The self-paced online format was a critical factor in her decision. “It was self paced, so it was a little something I could do in the evenings, because I was still working my job full time," Tara explains.  

This flexibility allowed her to learn on her own terms, fitting study sessions around her work commitments without falling behind. The user-friendly design of the platform made it easy for her to get started and stay on track. "The way that they had everything set up, it was easier for me to navigate," she notes. 

Comprehensive Curriculum and Real-World Instruction That Stands Out 

Once enrolled, Tara found that CTC's program offered more than just convenience. The curriculum was comprehensive, providing in-depth knowledge that expanded beyond her existing experience.  

“My experience had been mostly construction supervision in residential homes," she says. "So a lot of the coursework was both residential and commercial."  

This broad scope prepared her for the wide range of topics covered on the NASCLA exam and equipped her with valuable knowledge for future projects. 

What truly set the program apart for Tara was the quality of the instruction. In an age of automated learning, she appreciated that the course was developed and led by real industry experts. This human element brought a level of authenticity and practical wisdom that rote memorization simply can't replicate. 

“It wasn’t just repeated questions over and over again,” Tara emphasizes. “And it was definitely not AI. The expertise of the instructors really comes through in the course materials.”  

This focus on genuine understanding, rather than just test-taking tricks, gave her a solid foundation of knowledge. 

Conquering the NASCLA Exam with Confidence 

After about five months of dedicated study, Tara felt ready to take on the NASCLA exam. This exam is known for being a comprehensive test of a contractor's knowledge, requiring applicants to navigate 21 reference books during the six-hour test. It’s a challenge that can intimidate even seasoned professionals. 

However, Tara walked into the exam room feeling prepared and confident, thanks to the structured nature of the CTC course. The program’s logical organization was a key asset during the high-pressure exam.  

"I think the way that it was broken down per area of construction, it was really easy for me to go back through and navigate when I had questions," she reports. 

Her preparation paid off. Tara successfully passed the NASCLA exam on her first attempt, a testament to her hard work and the effectiveness of the training she received. Her high scores were a direct reflection of the confidence she had built throughout her studies. 

A Career Leap and Long-Term Security 

Earning her general contractor's license had an immediate and positive impact on Tara's career. The new credential allowed her to move from an hourly supervisory role to a salaried position with greater responsibility.  

"It was beneficial to me, because it came with a higher rung on the ladder," she shares. "And of course, it came with a salary versus hourly wage." This transition was more than just a pay increase; it was a fundamental shift in her professional standing. 

For Tara, who works for a small construction company building between 12 and 30 homes a year, the license also represents long-term career security. It solidifies her value to her current employer and ensures she has the credentials to remain competitive in the job market for years to come.  

"It's something that I've worked hard to achieve, as far as the license goes, and ensures that I'm up to par with everything else that's out there employment wise," she says. She sees her license as the key that unlocked the next stage of her career, stating, “The course made it possible for me to reach the next rung on the ladder.” 

Your Path to Professional Advancement 

Tara Whitley's success story is an inspiration for any construction professional looking to advance their career. Her journey demonstrates that with the right support, it is possible to balance a full-time job while preparing for and passing a major licensing exam. Her overwhelmingly positive experience led her to recommend the program to others in her field.  

"The course was great. It was easy to navigate, easy to use, and well thought out.” 

Contractor Training Center has empowered numerous construction professionals, project managers, and aspiring general contractors like Tara to transform their hands-on experience and industry knowledge into recognized certifications and contractor licenses. With more than 30 years of experience and a 90% first-time pass rate, the program provides the tools you need to succeed. 

Are you ready to take control of your career and reach the next rung on your professional ladder? Explore our contractor school’s self-paced online courses and learn how our expert instruction, application assistance, and proven results can help you achieve your licensing goals.