General Contractor Education

Education

Contractors of Colorado provides hands-on, industry-led education for trade professionals and general contractors ready to level up.

Our programs include Class C ICC G13 Exam Prep to help contractors get licensed with confidence, and GC101, a 4-week intensive for turning field experience into a professional, scalable contracting business.
We’re on a mission to professionalize the trades in Colorado through practical, real-world training led by industry experts.

Contractors of Colorado Education Programs

Prepare for your Class C Residential GC exam with monthly prep courses. Start when it works for you.

In-Person

Class C Residential GC — Exam Prep

$2,499
  • Schedule: Offered monthly, Saturdays 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
    (4-week program, 16 hours)
  • Location: 9044 Forsstrom Dr, Lone Tree, CO 80124
  • Includes IRC Book + exam-approved Tab Kit
  • Expert instructor guides you a proven test strategy
  • Classroom Portal tracker + mock practice exams & quizzes
  • 1-1 Office Hours as needed with Expert Instructor
100% Online

Class C Residential GC — Online Version

$1,999
  • Schedule: Offered monthly for 4 weeks (WED & FRI)
  • Wednesdays 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM & Fridays 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM
  • 100% online class with live instruction
  • Includes IRC Book + exam-approved Tab Kit
  • Portal tracker + mock practice exams & quizzes
  • 1-on-1 office hours as needed with instructor

Questions? Contact Cooper: (720) 475-6459 [email protected] Book Intro Meeting
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GC 101
IN-PERSON • 4-WEEK INTENSIVE 16 Hours Total

GC 101: The Blueprint for a Successful General Contracting Business

Program Investment
$1,999

Most contractors learn the "business side" through expensive trial-and-error: underquoted jobs, "scope creep," and exhausting client disputes. Contractors of Colorado’s GC 101 is a 4-week, intensive program designed to help you skip the learning curve and step into the role of a high-value General Contractor.

This isn’t a passive lecture series. It is a high-impact, practical workshop for trade professionals ready to transition from "working for a paycheck" to running a professional general contracting operation.

Dates
Saturday Afternoon: March 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th.
Time
2:00PM - 6:00PM
Location
9044 Forsstrom Drive, Lone Tree, CO 80124,
General contractor reviewing blueprints on a framed home
Blueprint-first training
Professional contractor and planning concept
Tips for hiring a home contractor

ABOUT THE COURSE

Over 16 hours of in-person training, we strip away the fluff to focus on the essential pillars of a profitable career:

Client Relations & Professional Presence

Master the intake and win the right jobs.

Defensible Estimating

Build bids that protect your margins.

Blueprint Reading & Permitting

Navigate plans and the building department with absolute confidence.

Risk Management

Understanding insurance and liability before it’s too late.

Growth Marketing

How to a Digital Marketing engine that works.

FINAL — Business Implementation Blueprint

How the five core pillars integrate into a single, professional general contracting operation.

Meet Your Instructor

Matthew Pennington

Contractors of Colorado’s Director of Education.

A former General Contractor with over 20 years of field experience and a background as a professional inspector, Matthew brings a 360-degree view of the industry.

Since early 2025, Matthew has spearheaded our highly-rated GC License Exam Prep Program, successfully helping a new wave of contractors earn their credentials. He is now channeling decades of hard-earned business intelligence into this curriculum, ensuring you leave the course confident, knowledgeable, and ready to build a business that lasts.

Ready to build a real contracting business?
$1,999 • 4 Saturdays • 2:00PM–6:00PM • Lone Tree, CO
PAY / ENROLL

Who Are the Best Points of Contact for These Programs?

You can always email us at [email protected]. But for streamlined communication, please connect with our team below.

Before the Course Begins

Cooper Simmerman, MBA
Managing Partner of Contractors of Colorado

Once the Course Is Underway

Matthew Pennington
Prep Course Instructor

Frequently Asked Questions

We know navigating licensing requirements can be overwhelming—but that’s exactly why we’re here. Our goal is to simplify the process and give you everything you need to pass with confidence.

  • Matthew Pennington is the cornerstone of Contractors of Colorado’s education platform and the architect behind our contractor training programs. A highly successful former General Contractor with more than 20 years of real-world field experience, Matthew is also a seasoned professional inspector, giving him a rare, 360-degree understanding of how projects are built, evaluated, and ultimately judged in the real world.

    What truly sets Matthew apart is not just what he knows, but how effectively he teaches it. Matthew is widely respected by his students for his straightforward teaching style, deep industry insight, and genuine investment in their success. He doesn’t teach theory, he teaches what works, what doesn’t, and why.

  • At this time, we do not offer formal financing options. To enroll in the program, please visit our secure payment portal to make payment. All GC License Exam Prep programs include the cost of the code book & tab kit. 

    100% Online GC Licence Exam Prep $1999 

    In-Person GC License Exam Prep: $2499

    In-Person GC101: $1999

    All sales are final. Under agreed circumstances, we can extend a 50% down payment to begin the class, with the balance due during Week 2 of the program. We accept credit cards, ACH, cash or check. 

Yes. We make sure you have the exact edition of the code book required for your exam.

Here’s why that matters: sometimes the licensing exams are still based on an earlier edition of the code, even though newer versions are being used out in the field. If you walk into the exam with the wrong book, it can throw you off.

Our program is designed to remove that risk. We’ll provide the correct, exam-approved code book so you can focus on studying and passing, without worrying about whether you bought the wrong edition.

We strongly recommend attending each session, since they build on the previous material and are critical to your success in the program.

That said, we understand that life happens. If a scheduling conflict arises, please notify the instructor 48 hour advance so we can help you stay on track and get the most value from the program.

Please note that enrollment is final. All sales are final, and no refunds will be issued for missed or unattended sessions, regardless of reason.

Many local code enforcement follows the 2021 or 2024 ICC code, but the path to becoming a licensed General Contractor, the ICC still runs through the 2018 IRC (Exam G13). (National Standard Building Contractor “Class C” ICC G13)

We provide you with the 2018 codebook and targeted training because that is exactly what you will see on the real exam.

Don't let the version gap worry you: the 2018 and 2021 codes are nearly identical in their structural and residential foundations. By training with us, you are preparing to pass the real exam on the first try while gaining the fundamental skills required for current building standards.

Generally, yes. But some justifications do not require it. (Sorry, we know that’s confusing, but every building department has their own requirements about documented experience before issuing a license) Reach out to the building department and confirm. 

For the Residential Contractor license, you’ll typically need at least 2 years of hands-on residential contracting experience that other general contractors will sign off on. This can include direct project management, trade work and verifiable residential contracting work history. 

For the Commercial Contractor license, the bar is higher. You’ll generally need a minimum of four years of verifiable experience on commercial job sites, specifically in a management role. In most cases, applicants are already working as superintendents or project managers for larger general contractors before they qualify to apply.

Not at this time. We only offer exam prep for the National Standard Building Contractor “Class C” ICC G13. This would be for residential general contracting work. 

ICC = International Code Council

For general contractors in Colorado (and other ICC-adopting states), the International Code Council (ICC) is the organization that writes the building codes your projects are inspected against. What that means for you:

  • Colorado adopts ICC “I-Codes” as the baseline for construction.
  • Cities and counties may amend them, but they’re still ICC-based.
  • Common codes you’ll see:
    • IRC – Residential (1–2 family homes)
    • IBC – Commercial & multifamily
    • IECC – Energy
    • IFC / IPC / IMC – Fire, Plumbing, Mechanical
  • Contractor and ICC exams are typically open-book ICC exams.

Bottom line: If you pull permits or pass inspections in Colorado, you’re working under ICC codes, whether you know it or not.

Yes, it is. The National Standard Building Contractor “Class C” (ICC G13) is a national exam, and its credentials are recognized in many jurisdictions across the United States.

Because our program is built on the International Residential Code (IRC), it is designed to prepare you for this exam regardless of which state you are in, as long as that specific area follows the ICC code and requires the G13 exam for licensure.

Important Guidelines for Out-of-State Contractors:

Confirm with Your Local Building Department: Before enrolling, you must contact the building department in the city or county where you intend to work. 

Ask specifically: "Do you require the ICC G13 (National Standard Residential Building Contractor) exam for a Class C license?" 

Don't Confuse Field Adoption with the Exam: Local jurisdictions often "adopt" older or newer versions of the code for their field inspections (e.g., they may still be inspecting based on the 2018 or 2021 code). However, you must test on the currently available G13 series as administered by the ICC. Our program focuses on the technical mastery of the code required to pass that specific exam.

Reciprocity: Many states and municipalities that don't have their own state-level test will accept the ICC National Standard results as proof of competency. This makes the G13 a highly portable and valuable credential for your career.

Bottom Line: If your local jurisdiction requires the G13 exam, this program will give you the tools to pass it. Always verify the specific exam ID with your local authorities first.

We will monitor the payment portal and follow up with you to confirm your enrollment.

For online classes, please confirm your mailing address so we can ship your code book directly to your home.  Programs run monthly, and we require at least 5-7 days between payment and the start of class to ensure your code book arrives on time. If payment is submitted the day or two before a program begins, we are unable to guarantee timely delivery of materials.

For in-person programs, please confirm your payment with our team. Your book will be here for you in our Lone Tree office for the start of class. 

As a best practice, please email [email protected] or call/text (720)475-6459 with any questions and streamlined confirmation. 

Our 100% Online Exam Prep is a live-instruction program that runs for (4) consecutive weeks, with a structured deep dive into the IRC book, focused on real-world application, test strategy, and code comprehension. These classes run every month, so depending on the time of enrollment, we’ll work with you to get into the appropriate cohort. 

Live Online Class Schedule

  • Wednesdays: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
  • Fridays: 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM 

Program Includes

  • 100% online classes with live expert instruction
  • IRC Code Book plus exam-approved tab kit (mailed to you)
  • Proven exam strategy and navigation techniques
  • Classroom portal with mock exams, quizzes, and progress tracking
  • 1-on-1 office hours with the instructor, as needed

Each session includes guided instruction, dedicated analysis of the code book, practical examples, and open Q&A.

Classes meet for four (4) consecutive Saturdays at our Lone Tree office. Class size is limited to 10–20 students to encourage engagement and discussion. Our facility features a large video wall for clear viewing and interactive participation throughout the program. Please plan to arrive by 7:45 AM for each session. Free on-site parking is available.

Location: 9044 Forsstrom Dr Lone Tree, CO 80124

Time: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM

What’s Included:

  • IRC Code Book with exam-approved tab kit
  • Expert-led instruction with a proven test-taking strategy
  • Classroom portal with progress tracking, mock exams, and quizzes
  • One-on-one office hours with the instructor, as needed

In short: No. To be direct, any organization offering a "guaranteed pass" isn't being honest with you. At the end of the day, you are the one who has to sit for the exam and perform.

However, our track record speaks for itself. We have helped hundreds of students successfully navigate the ICC exam. We are confident that if you commit to the process and put in the work, you will have a very high likelihood of passing on your first attempt.

What it takes to succeed: This course is an intensive preparation tool, but passing requires more than just showing up. Success in this program depends on:

  • Self-Study: Consistent review of materials outside of our class sessions.
  • Discipline: Following the study frameworks we provide.
  • Engagement: Actively participating in workshops and asking questions.

Our goal is to give you every tool, tip, and strategy necessary to walk into that testing center with absolute confidence.

The first step is to prepare for and pass the National Standard Residential Building Contractor “C” Exam (ICC G13), administered through Pearson VUE. Our exam prep program is designed to fully prepare you with structured instruction, in-depth textbook coverage, and realistic practice exams that mirror the actual test.

Once you complete the course, you’ll schedule and take the official exam at a Pearson VUE testing center near you.

In Colorado, general contractor licensing is handled at the local (city or county) level, not by the state. Because of this, licensing requirements vary by jurisdiction. Some building departments require multiple years of documented construction experience and letters of recommendation from licensed general contractors you’ve worked under, while others do not. Most jurisdictions will also require proof of insurance, basic business documentation, and additional application materials.

We are committed to helping students navigate licensing requirements by providing accurate information and study support. 

However, issuance of recommendation or work verification documents falls outside the scope of this course unless a formal working relationship exists. 

Students are encouraged to seek such documents from past employers who can verify their work history, aligning with licensing integrity requirements. 

The GC License Exam Prep Class is a highly focused, exam-driven program designed specifically to help you pass the ICC General Contractor exam. It teaches proven test-taking strategies, code navigation, and exam-specific concepts so you can confidently earn the credential required to pursue licensure.

The GC101 Program, offered by Contractors of Colorado, is a 4-week intensive designed to help you skip the learning curve and step into the role of a high-value General Contractor.

This is not a passive lecture series. GC101 is a hands-on, practical workshop built for experienced tradespeople who are ready to transition from working for a paycheck to running a professional general contracting business. In short:

  • Exam Prep helped gets you licensed
  • GC101 teaches you how to operate, protect, and grow a real general contracting business

GC101 is a 4-week, intensive program designed to help trade professionals transition from "working for a paycheck" to running a high-value, professional general contracting operation.

Instead of learning through expensive trial-and-error, such as underquoted jobs and client disputes, GC101 provides a practical "blueprint" for business success. Led by Matthew Pennington, a veteran contractor and inspector with over 20 years of experience, the program consists of 16 hours of in-person training focused on five essential pillars:

  • Client Relations & Professional Presence: Master the intake process to win the right jobs.
  • Defensible Estimating: Build bids that protect your profit margins and prevent "scope creep."
  • Blueprint Reading & Permitting: Navigate technical plans and building departments with confidence.
  • Risk Management: Understand insurance and liability to protect your business before issues arise.
  • Growth Marketing: Build a digital marketing engine that consistently generates leads.

GC101 is not a passive lecture; it is a high-impact workshop designed to strip away the fluff and give you the hard-earned business intelligence needed to build a sustainable, profitable career.

Colorado does NOT have a statewide general contractor license. 

Licenses are issued by cities and counties, so details can vary slightly by jurisdiction. That said, most local governments use the same Class A / B / C framework.

Class A General Contractor - The highest level.

  • Can work on any size and type of building
  • Includes commercial, multi-family, industrial, and residential
  • Typically no height or occupancy limits
  • Does not include electrical, plumbing, or HVAC work (those require separate licenses)

Best for: Large commercial projects, high-rise, institutional, or mixed-use work.

Class B General Contractor -  Mid-level license with some limits.

  • Allows most residential and commercial construction
  • Often restricted from very large or complex structures
  • May have limits on building height or construction type
  • Specialty trades still require separate licenses

Best for: Small-to-mid commercial buildings, standard multi-family, residential developments.

Class C General Contractor - Residential-focused and limited in scope.

  • Typically limited to single-family homes and small residential buildings
  • Often capped at 3 stories and a small number of units
  • No commercial or large multi-family work allowed

Best for: Home builders, remodelers, and small residential contractors.

Nuestros cursos de preparación para el examen se imparten en inglés, ya que los exámenes de contratista del ICC se administran principalmente en inglés. Sin embargo, el International Code Council (ICC) ofrece algunos exámenes en español, dependiendo de la jurisdicción y el tipo de examen. Para verificar si el examen de Contratista Clase B (ICC G12) o Clase C (ICC G13) está disponible en español, recomendamos consultar directamente con ICC o Pearson VUE, el proveedor oficial de los exámenes. Si necesita apoyo en español, algunas jurisdicciones pueden permitir el uso de un intérprete, pero esto requiere aprobación previa.

READY TO Secure your seat?

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Resources

Expert-written guides and articles designed to help you prepare for your contractor exams, understand requirements, and succeed in your construction career.

How to Pass the Class C Residential ICC G13 Exam in Colorado

How to Pass the National Standard Building Contractor Class C Residential ICC G13 Exam in Colorado

A complete step-by-step guide covering study strategies, exam structure, preparation tips, and key resources to help you pass the Class C Residential exam with confidence.

Read the Article

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