Back-to-School Tips to Reengage Local Students
As summer draws to a close, it’s a perfect time for home builders to reconnect with student chapters, local schools and Career and Technical Education (CTE) centers to support the future of the industry.
The need for skilled workers remains high, as there were more than 245,000 open construction jobs in May 2025. Builders can help address the workforce shortage by engaging students early and teaching them about the myriad career paths available in residential construction.
Whether planning events or donating supplies, there are ample ways to make a lasting impact. Here are a few tips and resources for HBAs this school year:
Encourage Student Chapter Membership to Build Industry Connections
Student chapter membership with NAHB is a great initial step toward long-term involvement in the industry. Engaging or reengaging with student chapters at local schools is important to building lasting connections between students and the industry.
Check the current list of NAHB Student Chapters and share the Student Chapter Membership Renewal page with educators if there’s an existing chapter at your local school. If not, utilize NAHB’s guide to help start a student chapter. Additionally, consider covering student dues for new chapters and membership renewal to ease the administrative burden on faculty.
Reach out to your affiliated student chapter and ask how you can support students this school year. Planning classroom visits, providing virtual or in-person jobsite tours and sharing guidance on IBS travel and Student Competition preparation are effective ways to connect students with real-world opportunities.
If your association doesn’t have an existing relationship with a school, ask fellow members if they have a connection. An HBA of Columbia (Mo.) board member linked Executive Officer Jami Clevenger with a contact at a local school district. The connection eventually led to the development of a “Careers under Construction” event, a successful hands-on career exploration day for juniors and seniors who had expressed an interest in the trades.
Expand your Association’s Reach with Partnerships
Consider building partnerships with organizations focused on career preparation, such as SkillsUSA, a national education nonprofit focused on workforce development. SkillsUSA offers volunteers the opportunity to engage students through technical education and hands-on competitions that highlight the value of construction careers. Many HBAs and members across the Federation regularly participate in SkillsUSA competitions.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of America also offer valuable opportunities to introduce students to residential construction. NAHB’s Boys & Girls Club toolkit can offer guidance on how to contact your local club’s executive director to discuss career exploration events, hands-on activities or other ways to get involved. One of your HBA members may already have a connection to a nearby club that you can use to start the conversation.
Donate Supplies for Yearlong Help
Many schools and CTE programs lack the funding to purchase classroom tools and materials, especially as construction supply costs continue to rise. HBAs and members can step in by donating equipment that helps students practice their skills and prepare for a career in the trades.
Consider donating items such as tape measures, screwdrivers, hammers, nails and lumber to allow students to work with real materials. These small contributions can make a large difference in keeping programs active throughout the year and give students the opportunity to build small projects and gain hands-on experience.
Looking Ahead
NAHB encourages all student members, local associations and industry professionals to join us in celebrating Careers in Construction Month in October. Explore the Careers in Construction Month Toolkit to find resources to spread the word and plan out your month.