Inaugural Event Introduces Utah Students to Rewards of Careers in Construction
This video highlights the career exploration activities throughout SUHBA's Careers in Construction day.
The Southern Utah Home Builders Association (SUHBA) hosted its first “Build Your Future: SUHBA Careers in Construction Day” on Sept. 12. The event was designed to introduce seventh-grade students to rewarding career opportunities in the home building industry.
Attendees had the chance to engage directly with construction professionals, learn about different trades, and participate in live demonstrations. More than 40 construction industry businesses were on-site to showcase the latest tools, technologies and career pathway opportunities.
This event is important as the demand for skilled construction workers in Southern Utah continues to rise. SUHBA aims to address the labor shortage by introducing the next generation to the many career paths available in construction. The top 25% of professionals in various construction trades earn at least $60,000 annually, making it a lucrative and fulfilling career choice.
“With the median age of construction workers in Utah at 41, and over 20% of the workforce aged 55 and older, the construction industry faces a significant labor shortage,” explained Skyler Stephens, president of SUHBA. “This event is a key initiative in attracting younger generations to construction career pathways to the trades, ensuring a steady flow of skilled workers to meet the growing housing demand in the region.”
SUHBA has partnered with the Washington County School District to promote careers in construction through the Construction & Architecture pathway at Career Tech High School. Students gain hands-on experience by participating in this program, including building a home featured in the St. George Area Parade of Homes.
Looking to create your own Careers in Construction-related event? Check out the Career Connections Playbook, created by NAHB and the National Housing Endowment, to help HBAs and members start workforce development outreach efforts.
Learn more about NAHB’s Careers in Construction Month.
Latest from NAHBNow
Jul 21, 2025
NAHB Mourns Passing of Rick HermanNAHB mourns the passing of Rick Herman, longtime Executive Officer of the Rochester Home Builders Association (RHBA) in New York. Rick joined RHBA 30 years ago and served as a tireless advocate for members in Rochester and around the state.
Jul 18, 2025
Metals and Equipment Drove Material Prices Higher in JuneResidential building material prices rose in June, driven primarily by higher construction machinery and equipment part prices, based on data from the most recent Producer Price Index (PPI). Metal commodities also experienced significant increases, following recently implemented tariffs on steel and aluminum.
Latest Economic News
Jul 21, 2025
Use of Private Water and Sewer Systems in New Single-Family HomesThe share of new single-family homes built with individual septic systems declined slightly in 2024 compared to the previous year, while the share of homes served by private wells remained steady.
Jul 21, 2025
Sales of Lower-Priced New Single-Family Homes Declined Over the Past Five YearsFrom 2020 to 2024, sales of lower-priced new homes declined significantly as the market moved toward higher-priced segments. Rising construction costs—driven by inflation, supply chain disruptions, and labor shortages—as well as higher regulatory costs, made it increasingly difficult for builders to construct affordable homes.
Jul 18, 2025
State-Level Employment Situation: June 2025Nonfarm payroll employment increased in 27 states in June compared to the previous month, while employment decreased in 23 states and the District of Columbia. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nationwide total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 147,000 in June following a gain of 144,000 jobs in May.