Home Builders Care, the 501(c)(3) charitable arm of the Home Builders Association of Central Arizona (HBACA), announced the grand opening of the Home Building Academy in Phoenix. At the academy, students participate in a nine-week, rapid worker training, resulting in industry-recognized certificates in either carpentry or electrical work.
The first four weeks of training provide basic construction knowledge, including reading a tape measure, using hand and power tools, and understanding safe work practices. The remaining five weeks of the program include trade-specific training.
“In creating the academy, we wanted to ensure that we removed as many obstacles to getting training and going to work in the residential construction industry as we could,” says Home Builders Care board member Connie Wilhelm. “We want students who graduate on a Friday to be able to go to work the following Monday, that’s why we provide tools students need to go to work.”
The academy is tuition-free for qualified students, and students maintaining “satisfactory” academic progress will receive a weekly stipend for living expenses, according to Home Builders Care. Successful graduates will also receive a set of tools, boots, work clothes, and personal protective equipment.
The academy is funded primarily by a workforce development grant through Maricopa County and an industry investment through the HBACA.
“One of the major challenges in the residential construction industry is the shortage of skilled workers,” says Brad Schoenberg, chairman of the HBACA board of directors. “We are excited about growing the academy, growing our industry, and helping individuals find well-paying careers in the residential construction industry.”
The Academy is also supported by The Home Depot Foundation through the Home Builders Institute (HBI). HBI provides the curriculum, instructors, and staff through an operating agreement. HBI’s curriculum is developed in conjunction with members of the NAHB and approved by the U.S. Department of Labor. Students at the Academy have access to career counseling, job-placement support, and networking opportunities with top industry employers through the HBACA’s members.
“By partnering with HBACA, we have a great opportunity to help solve this problem for the industry in Arizona and, at the same time, provide a great opportunity for individuals to find promising careers in the residential construction industry,” says HBI CEO Ed Brady.
Over time, the Home Building Academy anticipates adding additional training programs in various residential construction trades.
