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Home Builders Institute

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DONATE TODAY!
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Building America’s Workforce: Built in America

As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, it is worth remembering a simple truth: America was built by skilled workers.

From colonial homes and barns to railroads, bridges, factories, schools, and neighborhoods, generations of carpenters, electricians, plumbers, masons, and builders helped shape the nation. Their work created the communities where Americans live, work, and raise families.

In 1945, six Marines raised the American flag on Iwo Jima. Less than a year later, millions of veterans returned home and helped build the neighborhoods, schools, highways, and communities that shaped modern America. Since our nation’s founding, America’s greatest builders have always answered the call. As we approach America’s 250th birthday, a new generation of builders is needed – and HBI is helping prepare them. 

Today, that legacy continues.

For over 50 years, the Home Builders Institute (HBI) has been helping build America’s workforce by preparing the next generation of skilled trades professionals. Through tuition-free training, industry-recognized certifications, and job placement assistance, HBI continues a tradition that has powered our country since its founding.

Throughout every chapter of American history, one thing has remained constant:

Skilled workers built America.

As the nation approaches the America250 celebration, honoring the men and women who build and maintain our communities is more important than ever.

Learn more about the national commemoration at the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission.

The Need for Skilled Trades Has Never Been Greater

America faces a growing shortage of construction professionals. Demand for housing, infrastructure improvements, and skilled labor continues to rise, creating tremendous opportunities for individuals seeking meaningful careers.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, many construction occupations are expected to experience strong demand over the coming decade, with thousands of openings created each year through growth and retirements.

Meeting this workforce challenge requires an all-hands-on-deck approach.

That is where HBI comes in.

“America was built by skilled workers, and America’s future will be built by skilled workers. HBI is proud to train the next generation of builders who will carry that legacy forward with pride and dignity” – Ed Brady, President and CEO of HBI 

Continuing a Legacy of Building America

Building America’s Workforce: Built in America

For over 50 years, HBI has helped individuals develop the skills needed to enter rewarding careers in construction. As the nation’s leading nonprofit provider of skilled trades education, HBI’s mission is simple:

Building Careers. Changing Lives.

Through its national programs, HBI provides:

  • Tuition-free training
  • Industry-recognized certifications
  • OSHA safety training
  • Career readiness and employability skills
  • Job placement assistance
  • Pathways into apprenticeships and direct employment

These opportunities are available through multiple programs across the country, including:

  • Job Corps programs
  • Community and corrections initiatives
  • Military and veteran training
  • BuildStrong Academies
  • Future Builders of America programs

HBI By The Numbers

  • 50+ years of workforce development
  • 270,000+ graduates trained
  • 21,000+ students served annually
  • 600+ programs nationwide
  • 48 states
  • 90-92% average job placement rate
  • 85% of graduates enter construction careers
  • 90%+ military placement rate

Investing in the Next Generation

America’s future workforce includes young adults, veterans transitioning to civilian life, career changers, and individuals seeking a second chance.

HBI’s nationally recognized Pre-Apprenticeship Certificate Training (PACT) curriculum combines hands-on learning, safety, technical skills, and career development to prepare graduates for long-term success. It is one of only three pre-apprenticeship curricula recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor.

Students can train in fields including:

  • Carpentry
  • Electrical
  • HVAC
  • Plumbing
  • Solar installation
  • Building construction technology

Graduates leave with practical experience and credentials valued by employers nationwide.

Supporting Those Who Served America

Building America’s workforce also means supporting those who have already served the nation.

Through its Military Services Program. participation in the Department of Defense SkillBridge Program, and with the support of the Home Depot Foundation, HBI helps transitioning service members, veterans, and military families begin careers in the skilled trades. Programs are offered at military installations nationwide and include hands-on training, certifications, and job placement support.

Veterans who defended our country can continue serving their communities by helping build America’s future.

America 250: Looking Forward by Investing in People

As we celebrate 250 years of American history, we also have an opportunity to invest in the next 250 years.

Strong communities require:

  • Skilled workers
  • Affordable housing
  • Industry partnerships
  • Workforce development
  • Opportunities for individuals to gain hands on experience as well as soft skills in order to learn, earn, and grow

For more than 50 years, HBI has been answering that call.

America was built by skilled workers.

America’s future will be built by skilled workers, too.

And HBI is proud to help train them.

Frequently Asked Questions About HBI 

What does HBI do?

HBI is a national nonprofit organization that provides tuition-free skilled trades training, certifications, and job placement support to prepare individuals for careers in construction.

Who can participate in HBI programs?

HBI serves young adults, veterans, transitioning military personnel, career changers, justice-involved individuals, and others seeking opportunities in the building industry.

What trades does HBI teach?

Programs include carpentry, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, solar installation, and building construction technology.

Are HBI programs free?

Yes. HBI programs are tuition-free thanks to support from corporate partners, donors, and grants.

How can employers connect with HBI graduates?

Builders, contractors, and employers can recruit skilled graduates through HBI’s workforce programs and direct-hire opportunities.

Join the Mission. Build America’s Future.

Curious about HBI trades trainings?

Explore HBI’s tuition-free training programs and see how we are training for the future.

Are you an employer seeking skilled workers?

Connect with trained HBI graduates ready to contribute to your workforce.

Want to support the next generation of builders?

Your investment helps strengthen communities and expand opportunities for future skilled construction professionals.

America was built by skilled workers. Help build what comes next. 🇺🇸🏠🔨

Help Build America’s Next 250 Years

America’s workforce challenge will not solve itself. It will take builders, contractors, employers, educators, and future trades professionals working together to strengthen the pipeline of skilled talent our country depends on.

If you are an employer, HBI invites you to become part of the solution. Connect with HBI to recruit motivated graduates, provide on-the-job training, and help shape the next generation of carpenters, electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, and builders. Your experience and investment can change lives while strengthening your workforce and your community.

If you are looking for a rewarding career, now is the time to build your future. HBI’s tuition-free training programs provide the skills, certifications, and support needed to launch a meaningful career in the skilled trades. Whether you are just starting out, changing careers, or transitioning from military service, HBI can help you turn ambition into opportunity.

America was built by skilled workers. The next 250 years will be built by those willing to answer the call.

Ready to get started?

Future builders: Explore HBI programs and begin your journey today: 

Employers and industry partners: Connect with HBI to recruit skilled talent and help build America’s workforce.

Support the mission: Learn how you can help expand opportunities and strengthen communities across America.

Together, we can build stronger careers, stronger communities, and a stronger America.

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MARIO GONZALEZ

Vice President of Workforce Training & Employment

Mario joined HBI as a Regional Career Development Coordinator of HBI’s Military Services in 2019 and was promoted to Associate Vice President of WTE Community & Corrections Programs in 2022.
Now serving as Vice president of WTE (2024), he oversees the daily operations of HBI’s WTE Community & Corrections, Military Services, & Academies programs, working with partners to advance HBI’s expansion and enhance job placement opportunities for graduates. Mario serves as the liaison between HBI and external stakeholders to include military installations. He ensures successful outcomes for HBI graduates from transitioning service members & veterans to justice involved adults & youths. Internally, he provides strategic operational perspective to HBI’s senior leadership team. Prior to joining HBI, Mario served for 21 years in the U.S. Army across multiple locations globally & nationally and has an MBA from Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville, TN. Mario resides in Tennessee with his wife and children and spends time in Texas where his mother, adult children, and grandchildren reside. He enjoys the outdoors and serving in his community. 
JOSEPH F. LANDERS

Executive Officer of the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Massachusetts

Joseph F. Landers, 71, is the Executive Officer of the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Massachusetts having assumed that role in 2018 with a mandate from the Board of Directors to harmonize the five MA local associations, increase communications from the state to the membership, increase the public profile of the association,

create a path to financial stability and elevate the states lobbying efforts. Prior to taking on the challenging state association role, Joe was Chief Executive Officer and founder of Customized Structures Inc., a custom manufacturer of single-family, multi-family and commercial modular and panelized structures which began operations in 1984. Joe has been involved in the building industry, both site-built and factory-built, since 1973 and has worked in all phases of construction from development through design and production including on site management and sales. Customized Structures produced on average 330 single family homes per year, had an employee base as high as 180 and was known as the innovator in the production and design of modular components.

After the sale of Customized Structures Inc. to a private equity firm in 2003 Joe remained on the Board of Directors of the Company and functioned as a consultant to the CEO. He further took on the role of helping failing building systems companies return to profitability and successfully oversaw the sale of those companies. Mr. Landers has lectured frequently on the benefits and utilization of systems-built construction to building professionals around the country and has utilized his substantial professional and industry background to provide consultation services to both national and foreign companies interested in the processes and pitfalls of building and developing utilizing building systems components.

Joe attended Northeastern University and St. Anselm’s College graduating with a B.S. in 1972. 

Joe has been a member of the National Association of Home Builders since 1974. He is past president of two local Home Builders Associations and has served two terms as President of the  State of NH Home Builders Association. Joe is also a past president of the Modular Building  Systems Council of the NAHB, has been Chairman of the National Building Systems Council (BSC)  and has served five terms as a Trustee of the BSC during which time he created the BSC logo and  wrote the brochure “Most Frequently Asked Questions about Modular Homes”. 

In 1989, Joe received the National Pacesetter Award in recognition of his outstanding leadership  and contribution to the housing industry and in 1991 was awarded the title of Builder of the Year  by the Home Builders Association of N.H. In 1992 he was appointed by the Governor to the NH  Board of Fire Control within the Department of Safety and since then was reappointed three times.  He has served as a member on the State of New Hampshire Building Code Review Board and was  appointed by the Governor of NH to the Shore Land Protection Commission. Joe was selected to  receive the 2000 S. A. Walters Chairman’s Award, the premier award in the U.S. Systems Built  Housing Industry and was installed to the New Hampshire Housing Hall of Fame for his significant  and lasting contributions to the housing industry in the State of New Hampshire.  

Joe is a Senior Life Director of the National Association of Home Builders; he is served six terms on the NAHB Budget & Finance Committee serving as Vice Chair for four of those years, he has served  as Chairman of the Resolutions Committee, the International Housing Committee and the Building  Products Issues Committee of NAHB serving on the NAHB Executive Committee multiple times. 

In 2001 Joe was elected an Area Vice President of the National Association of Home Builders  representing builders through out the northeast. 

Joe is active in his community having served as finance chairmen of his church, is a member of the  International Order of Odd Fellows, and has served on multiple boards and committees on a  volunteer basis.  

Joe and his wife, Denise, reside in Plymouth, MA, they have two children, Jessica and Brad and two  grandchildren, Lily and Jack ages 13 and 11. 

Seth Appleton

President of U.S. Mortgage Insurers

The Honorable Seth Appleton is President of U.S. Mortgage Insurers. In this role, he leads USMI’s efforts to enable sustainable access to affordable mortgage credit for borrowers while protecting taxpayers. Seth previously served as President of MISMO, the real estate finance industry’s standards organization. Prior to that, Seth served as the Assistant Secretary for Policy Development and Research at the U.S.

Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD),
a position for which he was unanimously confirmed by the United States Senate. In addition to his service as Assistant Secretary, Seth concurrently served as the Principal Executive Vice President of Ginnie Mae, a government corporation guaranteeing the timely payment of
principal and interest on more than $2 trillion in mortgage-backed securities.

Before joining HUD, Seth worked on Capitol Hill, including serving as Chief of Staff for U.S. Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer for more than eight years. A native of Missouri, Seth is a graduate of Stanford University and is a co-chair of the Bipartisan Policy Center’s Housing Council. 

Zach Harris

BuildStrong Academy of Greater New Orleans Graduate

Zach Harris is a native New Orleans resident, two-time graduate of Tulane University and a 27-year-old construction entrepreneur. Zach comes from a family of builders and grew up around real estate and residential construction. In fact, Zach enrolled in no-cost trades training at the BuildStrong Academy of Greater New Orleans with his mother in 2022, followed by his father and two brothers in 2023.

Zach Harris - HBI Build Strong Academy New Orleans Graduate

His construction company, Zach the Builder, crafts safer New Orleans homes via reliable roofing services. “The Academy classes cater to different experience levels and different interests. I had the construction business experience but needed to understand the craft,” says Zach. “You can’t be a great coach if you haven’t played football before.”

Outside of running his company, Zach enjoys using his in-demand skill set to give back to the community. To commemorate Memorial Day 2023, Zach and other students and graduates from BSA Greater New Orleans volunteered to help build a home for a veteran in the Lower 9th Ward.

2023 MVP Class Schedule
2023 MVP Class Schedule - HVAC