When the home building industry joins forces with the school and instructor it takes the program to a different level. Professionals have so much to offer these students – expertise in specific fields. Make a big deal about it, celebrate that student, you will eventually reap the rewards of doing so.
Some examples of how to participate include:
- Take on a student in a CO-OP program and give them an education on a real jobsite, no matter how well-intentioned an instructor is, that experience can’t be replicated in a classroom/shop setting.
- Take time to explain what you are doing, and why you are doing it the way you are.
- Join an Occupational Advisory Committee and help guide your local program to fit the needs of our industry.
- Local HBAs should invite local students to your association’s events.
- Give a scholarship to a student going to college, or a toolbox filled with tools to a student going directly into the workforce.
- Keep the instructor up to date on the latest and greatest tools, equipment, and materials.
- Participate as end of program testing (NOCTI) proctors or Skills USA events.
- Donate tools and materials to your schools.
- Involve NAHB student chapter students and teachers in the HBA events like HBA Builder shows or community service projects.
- Hire students from these programs into your organization.