Have you ever thought about a career in construction? If you’re looking for a good-paying job with a bright future, this might be the perfect path for you! The HBI BuildStrong Academy of Greater New Orleans is celebrating its 2nd anniversary, and they’ve already helped hundreds of young people just like you get started in this exciting field.
Check out how it all started:
Building Skills, Building Futures
BuildStrong Academy knows that young people want jobs that pay well and offer a chance to grow. That’s why we offer free training programs that teach the valuable skills needed in the construction industry. In just two years, BuildStrong Academy GNO has trained over 400 students, with more than 214 graduating and moving on to successful careers. That’s a huge accomplishment in building futures!

Supporters Make a Difference
BuildStrong Academy of Greater New Orleans was founded by Brittany and Drew Brees and the Brees Dream Foundation in collaboration with the BuildStrong Academy.
Building a strong program takes more than hammers and nails. BuildStrong Academy GNO is grateful for Drew Brees and the Brees Dream Foundation‘s partnership and financial support. Together with over 120 other employers and community partners, they are making a real difference in the lives of New Orleans youth.
Learn more:
More Than Just Training
BuildStrong Academy GNO goes beyond just teaching skills. They understand that success requires extra support. That’s why they offer wraparound services to their students. These services include things like resume building, interview preparation, and even career fairs! Students also get to hear from industry speakers, network with professionals and benefit from mentor presentations.
- Resume Building
- Interview Prep
- Industry Speakers
- Networking
- Career Fairs
- Mentor Presentations
- And more
This kind of all-around support helps graduates feel confident and prepared to hit the ground running in their new careers.
Success By The Numbers
Since its establishment in 2022, BuildStrong Academy GNO has garnered significant achievements, enabling numerous students to undergo exceptional training and secure fulfilling career opportunities.
- 386 – Enrollments
- 351 – Graduates
- 756 – Certificates Issued
- 89% – Placement
- $22.75 – Average Starting Wage
Building a Brighter Future for New Orleans
BuildStrong Academy GNO’s success relies on the support of the local community. Donations and investments from New Orleans residents and businesses allow HBI to tailor its programs to the city’s specific needs. This ensures that graduates have the skills and knowledge that local employers are looking for.
Thank You To Our Networking and Employer Partners!
- Jefferson Chamber of Commerce JEDCO
- Kenner Business Association
- City of Kenner
- Building Trades Unions, including carpenters, electricians, boilermakers, and operating engineers
- Jefferson Parish Workforce Development Board
- HBA of Greater New Orleans Clement Building Company
- Gallo Mechanical
- 1st Lake Properties
- The Urban League of Louisiana
- Gulf Coast Bank and Trust
- Vessel Marketing
- New Orleans Area,
- Habitat for Humanity
- Canon Medical, Construction/
- Wirth Properties
- Kiewit/TIC
- JOB1
Want to Get Involved?
If you’re interested in a career in construction, check out the HBI website.
HBI training programs serve veterans, transitioning military, middle, high school and college students, displaced workers, underserved communities, justice-involved youth and adults and anyone interested in a career in the trades. A donation to support HBI programs can make a big impact on a student’s life.
With continued community support, BuildStrong Academy can keep changing lives and building a stronger future for New Orleans!