NAHB CEO Tells Workforce Leaders the Industry is Hiring
L to R: Jim Tobin, Maria Flynn, Dr. Ximena Gates and Andy Hines
Shop class isn’t the only way for young people to consider a trade career. NAHB CEO Jim Tobin emphasized the residential construction industry’s willingness to mentor, train and support young people interested in pursuing a career in the skilled trades during a panel discussion at the Innovating Disruption program on May 16 in Atlanta.
The discussion, held in conjunction with the Boys & Girls Club annual conference, was part of a dynamic daylong event featuring leaders from government, philanthropic and community-based organizations. The event’s goal was to deepen engagement between local clubs and partners such as NAHB for the Boys & Girls Club life and workforce readiness programs targeted to thousands of transition-age youth (ages 16-24).
The panel featured Tobin, Jobs for the Future CEO Maria Flynn and BuildWithin CEO Dr. Ximena Gates. Each speaker weighed in on the challenges taking a toll on their industry, building the talent pipeline and innovative ways they are considering the future of work in the industry. In addition, the speakers shared their vision for how their industry can impact today’s youth exploring career pathways.
“It’s not just that we need more people in the residential construction industry. We need the best people,” said Tobin. “We need smart, nimble, business-minded people and willing to fight for the American Dream.”
He encouraged club leaders nationwide to connect with their local HBA. Many HBAs are actively engaged with their local club. NAHB awarded $2,400 to 22 to HBAs this year to support career exploration activities.
Visit the Workforce Development section on nahb.org to learn more about the national partnership with the Boys & Girls Club or access resources to promote careers in construction in your community.
Latest from NAHBNow
Leading Suppliers Council
Aug 04, 2026
How AI Is Changing the Way Builders Source and Validate LandAI can strengthen site selection in two key ways: surfacing parcels competitors would otherwise never see, and validating them fast enough to act.
Safety
Aug 03, 2026
Strengthen Your Safety Plan During OSHA's Safe + Sound WeekJoin NAHB and OSHA in celebrating this year’s Safe + Sound Week, Aug. 10-16, to recognize the successes of workplace health and safety programs and share information and ideas on how to keep workers safe.
Latest Economic News
Economics
Aug 04, 2026
Construction Job Openings RisingThe number of open positions in the construction sector increased in June, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS). The current level of open jobs is down measurably from three years ago due to declines in construction activity, particularly in housing.
Economics
Aug 03, 2026
Residential Construction Spending Slips as Remodeling Activity WeakensPrivate residential construction spending declined 0.3% in June, while substantial downward revisions to improvement (remodeling) spending significantly altered the sector’s recent trajectory.
Economics
Jul 31, 2026
Housing’s Share of GDP Moves Lower in the Second QuarterHousing’s share of the economy was 15.8% in the second quarter of 2026, according to the latest estimates of GDP produced by the Bureau of Economic Analysis. This share is down from 15.9% in the first quarter and is at the lowest level since 2019.