Builder Creates Foundation to Address Local Workforce Development Gap
Labor shortages are top of mind for the building industry and NAHB members are committed to addressing the issue. Scott Wentz, executive partner with True Homes, based in Charlotte, N.C., noticed a gap between the job opportunities within home building industry and the employment needs of the community.
In addition to his commitment to workforce development through the True Homes Foundation, Wentz spearheaded the creation of the Builders Bridge Foundation, a non-profit committed to trade education and on-the-job training for students.
Builders can and should play a role in workforce development, says Wentz. “We have to do our part…everyone can have an influence,” said Wentz during the Workforce Development Champions Forum panel discussion at the International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas last month.
Builders Bridge works with dozens of trade and community partners on each of its programs. For example, its internship program connects high school students with local trade companies that can lead to full-time employment. The program launched last year with more than 20 high school students participating.
Students genuinely appreciated the on-the-job training and felt a sense of accomplishment. “I really enjoyed it. I enjoyed the people that I’m with and what I learned and the experience…it’s been a great summer,” said participant Daneil Fiordalisi. Wentz says similar programs will launch in Raleigh and Greensboro, N.C. this year.
In addition to the internship program, Builders Bridge has hosted several “immersion events.” Local schools are invited to bring students to a job site to learn about different trades, such as framing, electrical and plumbing, and includes several hands-on activities. More than 300 students have attended Builders Bridge immersion events.
The non-profit also wants to reach students online through video. The organization has partnered with Purdue University to create an “Introduction to the Home Building Industry” YouTube video to boost awareness of the rewarding career paths in the trades targeted to middle and high school students. Builders Bridge hopes the video will also be shown in schools across the country.
To learn more about how the home building industry and students are working together in North Carolina view the Builders Bridge video.
Latest from NAHBNow
Student Chapters | Workforce Development
Jul 25, 2025
NAHB's Student Chapters Helped Give Her Confidence to Pivot CareersZhetique Gunn's early exposure to building and problem-solving has led to national recognition and a city-level impact as an urban planner in Washington, D.C.
Jul 24, 2025
Federal Court Upholds New York State Gas BanThe federal court for the Northern District of New York on July 23 upheld New York state’s “gas ban” legislation. New York’s legislation is the first statewide law that restricts natural gas use in new buildings, effectively banning gas stoves and other fossil fuel appliances in most new construction starting in 2026.
Latest Economic News
Economics
Jul 25, 2025
Market Share of 5,000+ Square Foot New Homes Started Declines in 2024In 2024, there were 24,000 homes that exceeded 5,000 square feet, equating to a 2.3% market share of all new homes started. Both the number and market share for 5,000+ square foot homes experienced declines from 2023, according to the annual data from the Census Bureau’s Survey of Construction (SOC).
Economics
Jul 24, 2025
New Home Sales Hold Steady at a Relatively Tepid LevelChallenging affordability conditions, elevated interest rates and economic uncertainty continue to act as headwinds on the housing sector as many potential buyers continue to stay on the sidelines.
Economics
Jul 23, 2025
Existing Home Sales Retreat to 9-Month LowExisting home sales fell to 9-month low in June as home prices hit another monthly record high, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Sluggish pace of sales suggest that higher mortgage rates and elevated home prices are continuing to sideline buyers, despite improved inventory conditions.