Rowan, plumbers and pipefitters union, create path to career advancement in construction management

In a landmark partnership aimed at expanding career paths for skilled tradespeople, Rowan University and United Association Union Local 322 Plumbers and Pipefitters have signed an agreement to enhance educational access for union members in the plumbing and pipefitting industry.

The signing ceremony, held Aug. 28 at Local 322’s headquarters in Hammonton, marked the sixth such collaboration in Rowan’s growing initiative to support workforce development through higher education.

The agreement provides Local 322 members streamlined entry into Rowan’s online Bachelor of Arts in Construction Management (BACM) program, as well as access to the Certificate of Undergraduate Study (CUGS) in Construction Management for apprentices who meet academic criteria. Graduates of the BACM program will also benefit from expedited admission into Rowan’s Master of Engineering Management (MEM) program, which is administered by the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering and Rowan Online.

In addition to degree pathways, the agreement includes access to stackable certificates in Construction Management, Construction Project Management, and Construction Leadership. These credentials are designed to showcase specialized skills without requiring general education or elective credits—making them ideal for working professionals seeking career advancement.

The collaboration underscores Rowan’s broader mission to support lifelong learning and workforce readiness across New Jersey. With the construction industry embracing new technologies and project complexities, the Rowan–Local 322 agreement is a timely investment in the future of infrastructure and skilled labor.

"From the job site to the classroom, UA 322 and Rowan University are united in building stronger careers and stronger communities,” said Maria Nadelstumph, assistant vice president with Rowan’s Workforce Learning Solutions team at Rowan Online. “This partnership ensures that the skills earned in the trades are honored in the classroom, creating pathways to leadership for generations of South Jersey workers."

Local 322 Training Coordinator J. Nick Bidinger said there is already strong interest in certificates and/or degree programs through the partnership among active members, which number about 2,000 including retirees, some of who may also enroll.

“A lot of the work is moving into the offices, so if we can get our people to manage from the offices, these degrees and certificates will help get them into those positions,” Bidinger said.

He said the local, which represents plumbers, pipefitters and HVAC service technicians, is enjoying a surge of interest from potential new members, many of whom could benefit from a degree or certificate program to advance their careers.

Said Bidinger, “to me, it’s another tool in their toolbox.”

For more information, visit Rowan Online.