BuildStrong Academy Bringing More into the Trades

As recession and joblessness loom, new skills training for workers is crucial, said the head of the Home Builders Institute (HBI), a provider of construction trades training and education, at the grand opening ceremony of its new facility in Houston.

“Economists now expect we will see an increase in unemployment over the coming months, as the Federal Reserve continues taking steps to rein in inflation,” said Ed Brady, HBI CEO. “Now is the time to prepare with programs that will offer the underemployed or unemployed the opportunity to develop new, marketable skills.”

The chief executive spoke at the unveiling of the BuildStrong Academy of Houston. The training center is part of a nationwide initiative by HBI to help fill the severe worker shortage affecting housing in Texas and the U.S. The Houston location is the fourth BuildStrong Academy, following the opening of centers in Denver, CO, Orlando, FL and New Orleans, LA. HBI has promised to open 15 more training academies by 2027.

The Houston academy will use HBI’s industry-recognized curriculum designed to transform students into trained, pre-apprentices sought-after by builders. “Over the next few years, the BuildStrong Academy of Houston will help create great career opportunities in the building industry for thousands of those living in the Houston area,” said Brady.

Located on Harwin Drive, the BuildStrong Academy of Houston offers programs that are available tuition-free to anyone 18 years or older. No previous construction experience is necessary. Through participation in workshop, classroom and web-based learning, students earn industry credentials, including the OSHA-10 safety certification. They also receive career counseling, job-placement support, and networking opportunities with top industry employers.