Master the Skills That Shape Safer Communities
Boost your inspectional expertise with hands-on training designed for real-world impact.
Practical training for inspectional professionals
The Inspectional Education section is designed specifically for code officials, inspectors, permit technicians, and municipal professionals who want to strengthen their technical knowledge while sharpening their decision-making skills. These courses go beyond textbook theory. They are built from real cases, real courtrooms, real inspections, and real conversations that happen every day in our communities
Key Benefits:
Build Technical Competence
Gain the knowledge to make well-informed decisions in any inspection scenario.Strengthen Documentation & Defensibility
Learn how to document cases thoroughly, ensuring they are legally defensible and professionally sound.Support Consistency & Professionalism
Enhance your fieldwork with strategies that build trust and consistency in your inspections.
A Little Bit About Our Inspectional Education Courses:
Inspectional Education courses are designed to strengthen the knowledge, confidence, and professionalism of code officials and municipal inspectors. These classes combine real-world experience with practical application, covering legal foundations, documentation, enforcement strategies, and courtroom readiness.
Built for professionals in the field, each course provides tools that can be applied immediately — supporting defensible decisions, consistent enforcement, and stronger, safer communities.
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This program provides information on setting up a case (code enforcement or building) effectively from the beginning, including utilizing the 5 Ws of project management - What, Who, When, Where, and Why
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This engaging webinar examines the landmark disasters that shaped modern building codes, from the Great Fire of Rome to the Oakland Ghost Ship Fire and how they directly influenced the evolution of the ICC family of Codes.
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This course provides practical guidance on how to capture clear, objective, and legally sound photographs that support your case file, how to properly document violations, and avoid common mistakes that can weaken enforcement efforts.
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Structured for both new and seasoned inspectors, this class provides the basic principles for setting up effective case management processes, managing case photos, and enhancing inspectional knowledge through the development of multi-agency relationships
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We’ll discuss the essential skills necessary to present effectively in a courtroom setting and enhance your ability to communicate persuasively and navigate courtroom processes.
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This class provides a basic understanding of the power of collaborative communication within building departments, including building inspectors, code enforcement officers, zoning and permit technicians, and property maintenance officers.
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This class provides an in-depth exploration of the sovereign citizen movement, its ideologies, legal theories, the implications of these beliefs in modern society, and its impact on society and their interaction with enforcement/governmental representatives.
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We’ll explore how to define the scope of an inspection, document events and observations, incorporate photo evidence, and outline a clear path to compliance—reducing confusion and improving both public trust and legal defensibility.
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This course introduces the intricate world of gang philosophy, offering a comprehensive exploration of the underlying factors, motivations, and consequences that shape and define gang culture.
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This class delves into the development of where our sense of right and wrong comes from and how it affects not only our personal ethics but also our professional ethics; which in some instances, may be very different.
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The process of creating and executing an Administrative Search Warrant can be a very daunting experience. We will discuss when its the right time to execute one, completing the appropriate documents, and returning the warrant to close the action.
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This course focuses on the people skills, decision-making, and personal integrity it takes to succeed in the field. From defusing tense conversations to writing inspection reports that hold up in court, you’ll learn what it really takes to thrive as a public-facing inspector.
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This class will provide information in relation to the effective enforcement and administration of codes at the local, state and federal levels.
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In this class, we’ll explore strategies and best practices for building resilience and preparedness within your team by delving into the principles of crisis management and implementing effective communication strategies to minimize the impact of crises
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A strong safety culture is the foundation of a healthy and productive workplace. It emphasizes the shared responsibility of both employers and employees to prioritize safety and prevent accidents.
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We’ll discuss practical tools for navigating zoning challenges with confidence and professionalism, including interpreting ordinances, document violations effectively, and collaborate with planning departments,.
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This course is designed to provide inspectors the knowledge and skills necessary to identify and mitigate infestations in homes, hotels, and other public spaces.
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This class discusses the many aspects of the Zoning Code including the different use districts, zoning maps, general provisions for home occupations, other ancillary uses, sign regulations, and understanding the administration and enforcement chapter.
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This class delves into Chapter 3 of the International Building Code (IBC), which defines building classifications based on their use and function, a fundamental for code compliance, safety, and construction planning
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Do you find that you still have safety-related incidents and you have a Safety Plan in place? This class partners the need to not only have a safety plan in place but also partner it with an established safety culture to be effective.
Happy Clients
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![Jeff Zielke]()
A huge shoutout and heartfelt thank you to Sonya Shearer! She delivered an exceptional, full-day ICC class for us at the Oakland County Building Officials Association (OCBOA). Her depth of knowledge and professionalism are truly outstanding, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended. Beyond the classroom, Sonya has become both a trusted professional contact and a friend in this field. Her willingness to answer questions and offer guidance makes her an invaluable asset to our profession.
Jeff Zielke
WHY OUR INSPECTIONAL EDUCATION WORKS
Why choose Sonya Shearer?
With over 20 years of expertise in municipal government, inspectional services, and adult learning, Sonya Shearer brings real-world insight into every course. Each training session is designed to be immediately applicable, ensuring that the tools, strategies, and knowledge you gain will make an impact from day one. We focus on strengthening your judgment, professionalism, and documentation to ensure you’re prepared for any challenge in the field.
Ready to Enhance Your Inspection Skills?
Join our Inspectional Education courses today and take your knowledge and professionalism to the next level. Ensure that your inspections are consistent, defensible, and trustworthy with our comprehensive, hands-on training.