As part of 84 Lumber’s new national partnership with the Home Builders Institute (HBI), the company will fund scholarships for the HBI’s BuildStrong Academies and sponsor the 2025 Shirley McVay Wiseman Award, which will be presented at the 2025 International Builders Show.
For 84 Lumber, the partnership highlights both organizations’ shared commitment to addressing the skilled labor shortage and recognition of the need for more training and development opportunities. 84 Lumber is a supplier of building materials, manufacturer components, and services for the construction industry with more than 320 facilities in 34 states.
“84 Lumber, with its deep roots in the building materials industry, saw an opportunity to support workforce development in a way that could make a lasting impact. HBI, with its expertise in skilled trades training and certification, was an ideal partner to help provide those resources,” Amy Smiley, vice president of marketing for 84 Lumber, tells BUILDER.
As part of the partnership, 84 Lumber will sponsor eight $5,000 scholarships for students attending HBI’s BuildStrong Academies in 2025.
“The scholarships for BuildStrong Academy students are a direct reflection of 84 Lumber’s vision to nurture the next generation of skilled tradespeople,” says Smiley. “By lowering financial barriers to entry, 84 Lumber ensures that talent—regardless of background or financial situation—can pursue a career in the trades. This commitment aligns with [84 Lumber’s] broader goals of workforce development and addressing the skills gap that is currently affecting the industry.”
The HBI currently has academies in Orlando, New Orleans, Sacramento, Houston, Charlotte, and Phoenix. Each offers a robust curriculum in trade skills, job readiness, and career development. The organization has plans to expand to 10 other locations in the next five years.
“The HBI is thrilled to strengthen our partnership with 84 Lumber to build the next generation of skilled tradespeople,” says HBI president Ed Brady. “Their support and collaboration underscore the critical importance of investing in workforce development and equipping individuals with the skills needed to succeed in the construction industry.”
The partnership comes at a time when the construction industry is facing a significant labor shortage. The HBI estimates the industry needs to hire 723,000 workers per year to keep pace with demand. 84 Lumber recognizes that a lack of skilled labor can lead to delays, higher costs, and potential declines in industry standards; the organization has also seen firsthand the benefits of investing in workforce development initiatives.
“84 Lumber is passionate about creating a future where the construction workforce is diverse, well-trained, and ready to meet the demands of an evolving industry,” Smiley says. “Over 96% of our store leadership team started their careers with 84 Lumber as a Manager Trainee. In fact, our chief operating officer Frank Cicero started as a Manager Trainee in 1984.”
Shirley McVay Wiseman Award
84 Lumber’s sponsorship of the 2025 Shirley McVay Wiseman Award is also deeply rooted in the company’s values. The award is named after the first woman to serve as the president of the NAHB; 84 Lumber, a certified national women’s business enterprise owned by Maggie Hardy, is a strong advocate for women in the construction industry.
The Shirley McVay Wiseman award honors outstanding individuals or teams for their contributions in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the construction industry. The award highlights efforts that drive systemic change and promote great access and opportunity for underrepresented groups.
“Highlighting the achievements of underrepresented groups is not just about recognition; it’s about inspiring future generations and ensuring that the industry provides opportunities for all,” Smiley says. “This award represents more than just personal achievement—it’s a symbol of the need to create an environment where talent from all walks of life can thrive, and where the trades are seen as a viable and rewarding career option for everyone.”
The 2025 award will be presented to Christina Celata, a former student at HBI’s Benjamin Franklin Career Center in Boston. Celata overcame homelessness and addiction on her way to a 25-year construction trade career working as a carpenter after being hired by the Carpenter’s Union.
“Christina Celata’s story is a powerful example of overcoming obstacles and achieving excellence in a field that has traditionally been less accessible to women and underrepresented groups,” Smiley says. “Her journey highlights the resilience, skill, and determination required to succeed in the trades, as well as the importance of mentorship and support.”
Smiley says the focus on workforce development and support of diversity in the trades represented by the scholarships and Shirley McVay Wiseman Award are part of 84 Lumber’s long-term commitment to industry improvement.
“While the BuildStrong Academy scholarships and the Shirley McVay Wiseman Award are important milestones, the company is continually evaluating new ways to expand its support for the industry,” Smiley says. “This includes considering additional partnerships that can further create career paths in construction.”
