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Honoring Military Families

Building Strong Futures Through HBI’s Free Construction Training

images of military parent and their children at HBI bring your child to work day

Every November, HBI joins the nation in celebrating Military Family Appreciation Month – a time to recognize the strength, resilience, and sacrifices of the men and women who serve, and the families who stand beside them.

Military families embody dedication, perseverance, and courage. At Home Builders Institute (HBI), we’re proud to support military members, veterans and Military Family Appreciation Month through free construction training programs that help transitioning service members, veterans, and military dependents start meaningful civilian careers.

WATCH: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGh_Nalxkr4

Our Commitment to Military Members and Veterans

Since 2018, HBI’s Military and Veteran Training Programs have equipped participants with hands-on construction skills, industry-recognized certifications, and job placement assistance. Training takes place both on-base and in local communities, helping graduates gain confidence, direction, and purpose as they enter the construction workforce.

With support from key partners such as The Home Depot Foundation, HBI continues to expand its programs to reach more military families nationwide, ensuring every participant can build a rewarding and sustainable career.

HBI proudly participates in the Department of Defense (DoD) SkillBridge Program. With approval from their chain of command, transitioning service members located near an HBI training facility can take part in this cost-free 12-week program. No military or GI Bill funding is needed, as the program is fully supported by The Home Depot Foundation.

Throughout the program, participants receive hands-on construction training, earn professional certifications, and benefit from job placement assistance. Before enrolling in the DoD SkillBridge Transitioning Military Program, service members complete an interview with HBI staff to ensure the best program fit.

🔗 Learn more about HBI’s Military and Veteran Programs

By the Numbers: 2018 – September 2025

Since launching its Military Program, HBI has achieved impressive results:

  • 5,618 Enrollments
  • 5,128 Graduates
  • 9,645 Certificates Earned
  • 4,536 Job Placements
  • 100+ Employer and Hiring Partners supporting career transitions

Each number represents a service member or military spouse building a better future — for themselves, their families, and their communities.

Student Success Story: Amir Hernandez

After proudly serving his country as a U.S. Army mechanic, Amir Hernandez set his sights on a new mission: building a lasting career in the skilled trades. 

Originally from Homestead, Florida, Amir discovered HBI’s program at Fort Carson through the SFL-TAP Career Skills briefings. Inspired by the opportunity to apply his mechanical expertise in a new way, he enrolled in HBI’s Carpentry and Electrical training program and graduated in March 2025 — fully equipped with hands-on experience and industry certifications.

But for Amir, this wasn’t just about launching a career — it was about continuing a family legacy. His father owns JEH JR Holdings, a Florida-based construction company, and Amir joined him right after graduation to help rebuild hurricane-damaged homes in North Carolina. 

With real-world training, determination, and a strong sense of purpose, Amir is helping to strengthen both his family’s business and the communities they serve.

His journey from military service to skilled trades professional is proof that with preparation, passion, and purpose — anything is possible.

Student Success Story: Taylor Hutchins

Prepare to be inspired! This story from our HBI Military Program at Fort Hood, Texas, highlights the perseverance of one of our recent graduates and the incredible support of our community partners.

At just 19 years old, Taylor Hutchins has already demonstrated the kind of determination and grit that defines HBI students nationwide. Taylor’s journey began with Job Corps in Texas, but when that program unexpectedly closed, she refused to give up on her goal of building a better future.

With encouragement from her mother — an active-duty Army service member transitioning to civilian life — Taylor enrolled in HBI’s Fort Hood construction training program and committed herself fully to success. Every day, she rode her bicycle several miles to attend class, proving that nothing could stand between her and her dreams.

On September 26, 2025, Taylor proudly graduated from HBI Fort Hood, and she’s now in the final stages of being hired by the Department of Public Works (DPW) on the Fort Hood military installation.

Her story doesn’t end there — Taylor’s mother is set to begin her own HBI training this fall as part of her transition from active-duty service to civilian life. Together, this inspiring mother-daughter duo embodies the spirit of resilience and opportunity that HBI is all about.

We are also grateful for the ongoing support of our community partners, including the local @HomeDepot in Killeen, which maintains a strong relationship with our program. As part of their training, HBI students recently completed a scavenger hunt at the store, giving them valuable real-world learning experiences. And when Home Depot learned that the classroom microwave had stopped working, they graciously donated a new one — another example of their commitment to our students’ success and well-being.

From dedication in the classroom to partnerships in the community, Taylor’s journey reflects the heart of HBI’s mission: building careers, changing lives, and strengthening America’s workforce — one student at a time.

FAQs About HBI’s Free Construction Career Training for Military Veterans

1. Who is eligible to participate in HBI’s Military and Veteran Training Programs?
HBI’s programs are open to transitioning service members within 180 days of separation, veterans, and military dependents who are interested in starting a civilian career in the construction trades. Training is offered both on-base and at community-based centers across the country.

2. What types of construction skills and certifications can I earn?
 Participants receive hands-on training in residential construction, electrical, carpentry, and HVAC. Graduates earn industry-recognized certifications, including HBI’s Pre-Apprenticeship Certificate Training (PACT), which helps employers quickly identify qualified candidates.

3. Does HBI help with job placement after graduation?
Yes! HBI provides career placement assistance and connects graduates with over 100 employer and hiring partners nationwide. Many graduates secure full-time employment shortly after completing the program — often with opportunities for advancement, apprenticeships, or specialized training.

Partnering for Long-Term Success

HBI’s Military Programs thrive through strong partnerships with leading organizations and employers who believe in “building second service careers.” With more than 100 hiring partners across the country, HBI connects graduates directly to construction companies eager to employ skilled workers.

Together, we are building pathways for those who have served to continue contributing to their communities in meaningful ways — constructing homes, rebuilding neighborhoods, and strengthening America’s workforce.

Thank You to Our Military Families

This November, and every month, we salute the families who support our nation’s heroes. Your strength inspires us. Your service motivates us. And your future drives our mission forward.

If you or someone you know is a transitioning service member, veteran, or military dependent, HBI’s free construction training programs are here to help.

🔗 Explore HBI Military Programs

💙 Support HBI Students Through the Student Success Fund

Together, we’re building careers – and building America – one family at a time.

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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