Build University Connects Students with Industry Professionals

Membership
Published

High schools have been operating in fits and starts since the beginning of the pandemic. Home building industry leaders in Iowa, undeterred by the uncertainty, created the Build University Series, free online sessions developed to educate students about careers in construction.

The series was developed through the collaborative efforts of Iowa Skilled Trades, the Iowa Intermediary Network, the Iowa Department of Education and several industry partners. As soon as local schools began to close in April, the HBA of Greater Des Moines (DSMHBA) was involved in discussions with HBAs and educational leaders in Iowa to re-imagine skilled trades programming for a virtual audience, said Brandon Patterson, who leads workforce development efforts at the HBA.

The goal was to inform students about the benefits of working in the industry, provide specific steps on where to start and offer insights into the various career paths available. Before planning the series content, Build University partners assembled a focus group of students to determine their interests and what information would benefit them, said Melisa Cox, partnership and publications lead at DSMHBA.

The sessions were designed to meet the statewide Career and Technical Education (CTE) standards. The Iowa Intermediary Network Coordinators provided the technology platform to host the sessions, managed registration and shared information about Build University with schools.

Build University held its first online class this month. Over 1,000 students from more than 60 school districts in Iowa participated in the first session, "Intro to Trades." The session featured men and women in the industry sharing their personal stories that led them to a career in the trades.

Future sessions will include a mix of panel discussions and job site tours spotlighting carpenters, electricians, plumbers and other skilled professionals. HBA members have volunteered as speakers and some members have recruited their apprentices to address the students. Patterson credits the collaboration of the state and local HBAs in Iowa and longstanding relationships with educational leaders for the successful launch of Build University.

For HBAs and members who are interested in creating an online program or virtual event for students, Patterson recommends connecting with others who are interested in workforce development. "Find a team of people who are super engaged and are willing to be held accountable." To view the upcoming Build University sessions, visit the Iowa Intermediary Network.

Subscribe to NAHBNow

Log in or create account to subscribe to notifications of new posts.

Log in to subscribe

Latest from NAHBNow

IBS | Leading Suppliers Council | Design

Jun 20, 2025

The New American Home 2026: Innovation Meets Impact

The New American Home 2026, the official show home of the 2026 NAHB International Builders’ Show® in Orlando, is already drawing industry buzz for its distinctive design and rare structural features.

Remodeling | Publications

Jun 19, 2025

Award-Winning Advice: Surround Yourself With Good People

In the latest edition of Pro Remodeler, 2024 Remodeler of the Year Mike Pressgrove shares advice from his career.

View all

Latest Economic News

Economics

Jun 20, 2025

Single-family Construction Loan Volume Grows

Credit conditions for builders and developers eased in the first quarter of 2025 as the level of outstanding 1-4 family residential construction loans rose for the first time in two years, according to data released by FDIC.

Economics

Jun 18, 2025

The Fed Pause Continues

Reflecting most forecasters’ expectations for the June FOMC meeting, the Federal Reserve continued its post-2024 pause for federal funds rate cuts, retaining a target rate of 4.5% to 4.25%.

Economics

Jun 18, 2025

Sharp Drop in Multifamily Production Brings Overall Housing Starts Down

A sharp decline in multifamily production pushed overall housing starts down in May, while single-family output was essentially flat due to economic and tariff uncertainty along with elevated interest rates.