How NAHB's Student Chapter Helped Rising Star Make Career Change

The trajectory of Keynon Webb’s career changed after he switched majors three years into his studies from mechanical engineering to pursue a career in construction.

The Tuskegee University wide receiver’s time on the football field was coming to a close, and as his focus tightened on finding his long-term career, a trip to the Construction Science and Management career fair on campus helped him find his purpose.

By day’s end he’d secured an internship with Balfour Beatty. “I thought ’This must be what I’m supposed to be doing, because it all happened so fast,’” said Webb.

Webb made the career switch with support from a teammate who’d made a similar change, but also because he knew his skills would translate. He’s naturally quick on his feet, a problem-solver and a strong critical thinker.

He credits Student Chapter Advisory Board Chair Dr. Charner Rodgers with helping him hone his raw talents into lucrative trade skills after he joined Tuskegee University’s student chapter program and competed in the Student Competition at the International Builders’ Show (IBS).

"I learned how much information was needed for the competition," said Webb. "When you think of building a house, you just think of things like building a schedule and gathering materials. But you have to think of all aspects like the target audience of how exactly to sell a home, and what happens if you don’t sell a home."

Webb was tasked with discovering the target audience for his build at the competition, an experience that helps him today in his work as an assistant construction manager at PulteGroup.

“Joining something new can be a little nerve-wracking, but it’s well worth it,” Webb said about his time in the student chapter program. “The tools that you’re going to learn are beyond measure for what you can expect for your future. There are so many people you’re going to meet, so many connections you’re going to gain. It’s an amazing experience. The teammates you make, the coaches you have, it’s like being part of one big family.”

The 2025 Student Competition at IBS will be held Feb. 24-26. Attendees can watch teams compete in the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. The Production and Custom/Small Home Build Competitions will also be livestreamed on the NAHB Student Chapters Facebook page and NAHBTV YouTube channel.