2 Ways HBAs Can Support the Next Generation of Builders

As the home building industry’s labor shortage continues, it’s more important now than ever to educate the younger generation on the many exciting opportunities a career in construction can bring.

“If you have people who are entering the workforce or are taking classes that are part of this industry, we should be giving 110% of our effort to those students to keep them motivated and interested in the opportunities that are available,” said Cindy Kosloski, CEO of the Home Builders Association of Greater Lansing in Michigan.

Providing Mentorship and Guidance

Doing their part to help, members of the HBA of Greater Lansing are lending their expertise in several ways, including serving as a sounding board while the students of Michigan State University (MSU) prepare their presentations for the International Builders’ Show’s Student Competition each year.

“The students do a great job taking in the feedback because they realize they’re working with a lot of industry professionals who are there to help them,” said Kosloski. 

Kosloski also brings in women from MSU to meet and be mentored by industry professionals from the HBA’s Professional Women in Building (PWB) Council, and invites all students to its monthly membership events.

Assisting with Job Searches

In South Dakota, the HBA of the Sioux Empire is frequently helping students at Mitchell Technical College and Southeast Technical College search for work during school breaks and after graduation.

“There’s a need for getting qualified people into our industry,” said Todd Anawski, government affairs and safety director for the HBA of the Sioux Empire.

If you’re looking to get more involved with a local student chapter in your area, check out the current list of student chapters and discover more about student chapter membership.

Learn more about the Student Competition at IBS.