At HBI’s BuildStrong Academies, we’re committed to providing tuition-free, hands-on training that leads to real careers in the construction industry. Thanks to a generous partnership with 84 Lumber, that mission just received a powerful boost.
In 2025, 84 Lumber awarded eight $5,000 scholarships to support female students at four of our BuildStrong Academies: Orlando, Charlotte, Greater New Orleans, and Houston. These scholarships were not given directly to students but were made in the selected students’ names to their respective Academies. This approach ensures that the funds directly enhance training programs for women who demonstrate exceptional leadership, perseverance, and determination – qualities essential for success in the skilled trades.
At HBI, we understand the importance of introducing more women to the construction industry – and nowhere is that more evident than in our partnership with 84 Lumber, a woman-led company under the leadership of Maggie Hardy, one of America’s most successful businesswomen. As featured in Forbes, Maggie Hardy has built 84 Lumber into one of the nation’s largest privately held building materials suppliers. Her leadership is a powerful reminder to our female students that there is no limit to what women can achieve in the trades, whether on the job site or in the boardroom. The presence of women in leadership at 84 Lumber helps inspire and empower our students, showing them firsthand that a career in construction doesn’t just offer jobs – it offers a pathway to leadership, entrepreneurship, and lasting impact.
The recipients were chosen by the staff at each of the four academies, highlighting the importance of local insight in recognizing and nurturing talent. This initiative not only acknowledges the hard work and potential of these women but also reinforces the HBI Academies’ commitment to fostering comprehensive and supportive learning environments.
Meet The Scholarship Honorees
Meet the exceptional students who are leading the way in redefining what it means to be a minority woman in construction:
🛠️ Yelina Espinoza – Houston Academy
Yelina, the second oldest of eight siblings, grew up in Houston with a relentless drive for independence. Denied the opportunity to work with her father, a plumber, she instead pursued her own path through various jobs – until she discovered HBI. Determined to succeed in construction, she became the first female Carpenter at Tellpsen Construction after completing her HBI training. Yelina is living proof that grit and guidance open doors.
🛠️ Reckita Canon – Orlando Academy
A lifelong entrepreneur, Reckita began selling Avon in middle school and now aspires to be a developer of affordable, high-quality homes. With a strong background in real estate and credit education, she is earning her carpentry certification at HBI to better understand every stage of the building process. Her dream is to create faster, more efficient versions of Habitat for Humanity homes—with heart and hustle.
🛠️ Taiya Cancel – Charlotte Academy
Taiya is excelling in the Electrical Pre-Apprenticeship Program at the Charlotte Academy. With her OSHA 10 certification, bilingual communication skills, and deep empathy from her work as a CNA, Taiya is mastering the technical and human side of electrical work. She’s known for her professionalism, teamwork, and drive to uplift others – both on and off the jobsite.
🛠️ Laura Torres – Orlando Academy
After six years in the U.S. Army, Laura found herself uncertain of her next step. Then she discovered HBI’s Transitioning Military and Veterans Program. Enrolled in the Winter 2025 Carpentry Class, she rediscovered her confidence and passion for learning. Now, she’s planning to continue her education in building construction technology, inspired by the support of her instructors and the power of purpose.
🛠️ Kayla Petes – New Orleans Academy
Kayla’s passion for woodworking started with small projects for her grandparents and quickly turned into a journey of skill-building and discovery. Selected for her precision, dedication, and high-quality craftsmanship, Kayla stands out in every way. Her instructors praise her as an inspiration to her peers, proving that talent and passion know no gender.
🛠️ Da’Shina Frye – New Orleans Academy
Before HBI, Da’Shina knew nothing about carpentry. Now, as she approaches graduation, she’s learned both interior and exterior construction and enters the classroom each day full of excitement. Her goal? To build a career that offers financial freedom, creativity, and joy. She plans to launch multiple businesses – and credits her instructors with showing her what she’s truly capable of.
🛠️ Cyann Gathing – Charlotte Academy
Cyann is thriving in her Pre-Apprentice Carpentry training, where her problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and adaptability set her apart. With a background in logistics, customer service, and residential services, she brings a well-rounded perspective to the trades. Cyann’s vision is clear: build a better future for herself and her community, one beam and blueprint at a time.
🛠️ Shaquitha Crawford – Houston Academy
Shaquitha is entering the final six weeks of the carpentry program with a record of perfect attendance. As a dedicated mother and first-time construction trainee, she’s rewriting the narrative of what it means to start over – and succeed.
Shaquitha is a shining example of the resilience and courage it takes to step into a new field – and she’s proving that age, background, or past experience should never be a barrier to success in the skilled trades.
84 Lumber + HBI = Building Stronger Futures Together
84 Lumber’s collaboration with HBI underscores a shared dedication to workforce development and diversity in the construction industry. By investing in these scholarships, 84 Lumber is helping to break down barriers and create opportunities for women to thrive in construction careers.
If you’re considering a career in construction, HBI’s BuildStrong Academies offer free training programs designed to equip you with the skills and certifications needed to succeed. With the support of industry leaders like 84 Lumber, there’s never been a better time to build your future in the skilled trades.
For more information on how to enroll and take advantage of these opportunities, visit HBI’s website.
Opportunities Like This Are Waiting For You
These eight incredible women are paving the way for others – just like you – to step confidently into the construction industry. At HBI BuildStrong Academies, we provide free training, industry-recognized certifications, and career placement support to help you succeed.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to change your career path, you belong in the skilled trades – and we’re here to help you get there.
👉 Ready to get started? Visit https://hbi.org to learn more and apply today.
