Trade Talk Times

Educating and Training Individuals to Become Career-Ready and Advance within Construction Industry Occupations

Trade Talk Times

October 2025

Celebrating Build Smart Institute's Latest Grads

Last month, these students completed the CORE Fundamentals of Construction course! Along the way, they earned impressive industry-recognized credentials, including OSHA 10, First Aid/CPR, NCCER Core, and HBI building a strong foundation for their future in the trades.

To put their skills to work, the class teamed up on a hands-on project and built a full chicken coop (pictured here). This project not only highlighted their craftsmanship but also the teamwork and problem-solving skills they’ve developed.

These graduates are just getting started. They’ll continue their training later this year as they dive into carpentry and electrical pathways.

Excited to start your own journey in construction? Our next CORE classes kickoff in November and January 2026. Don’t wait and visit our website to learn more and enroll today!

Shaping Tomorrow’s Workforce

At Build Smart Institute, our mission is to prepare individuals for successful careers in the construction industry. Registered apprenticeships are a vital part of that preparation.

On September 24, 2025, we were honored to participate in the New River Valley Home Builders Association’s Insights Breakfast at Warm Hearth Village in Blacksburg, VA. The event highlighted workforce development needs in the region’s construction industry.

Virginia Works Chief Deputy Commissioner Angela Kelly-Wiecek delivered the keynote address. A panel discussion followed, moderated by Build Smart Institute President Michelle Ramaker, and included regional employers Rome Mechanical and David Stephens Plumbing and Electrical.

Additional perspectives were shared by Craig Toalson, CEO of the Virginia Home Builders Association, and representatives from Montgomery County Schools. Panelists explored apprenticeship programs and other strategies to strengthen the workforce and meet industry challenges.

At Build Smart Institute, we are proud to be part of these important conversations that advance apprenticeship and workforce development in our region.

Heavy Equipment Operator Training

Classes begin October 27th, 2025 and will be held Mondays and Wednesday 8:00am - 4:00pm.

Utilizing the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) curriculum, this program goes beyond the classroom with in-seat training hours on real equipment in the field—offering students an invaluable, hands-on learning experience.

Students will have the opportunity to operate industry-standard equipment under expert supervision, gaining the confidence and competence essential for success on the job site.

To enroll in the Heavy Equipment Operator training program visit our website. You may also contact us at info@buildsmartinstitute.com or call (540) 900-3340.

Building Careers: Ferrum Students Shine at Industry Expo

Select Ferrum College students enrolled in Build Smart’s CORE Fundamentals of Construction program joined Build Smart staff at the 6th annual Virginia Builders Summit & Expo in Richmond, Virginia.

Hosted by the Virginia Association of Home Builders, the summit brings together leading residential builders, remodelers, developers, suppliers, and partners for a daylong event filled with exhibitors, education sessions, and product demonstrations.

During the expo, students showcased their skills by demonstrating how to frame a wall, install an electrical box, and hang drywall.

These students are enrolled in Ferrum College and Build Smart Institute’s construction management certificate program, where they are gaining the knowledge and hands-on training needed to launch careers in the skilled trades.

We are proud to see the next generation of construction professionals representing Build Smart and Ferrum College on such an important industry stage.

Online Training

Too Busy for Training?

Try Online Courses That Work With Your Schedule

Finding time for professional development can be a challenge, especially with a packed schedule. That’s why Build Smart offers flexible, self-paced online courses designed to fit into your life.

Whether you're looking to sharpen your skills or advance your career, our online programs make it easy. You can enroll quickly and start learning immediately, whenever it works best for you.

We offer courses in Project Management, Estimation, and more, each designed by industry professionals to give you practical, job-ready knowledge.

Visit our website to explore available courses and enroll today!

New Registered Apprenticeship Launches in the New River Valley

Build Smart Institute, in collaboration with the New River Valley Home Builders Association, the New River/Mount Rogers Workforce Development Board, and David Stephens Plumbing and Electrical, has launched a registered apprenticeship program serving the New River Valley.

Dane and Zack, pictured here with owner David Stephens on the left, are the first students to begin the program. Both completed the CORE Fundamentals of Construction course and are now preparing to pursue additional training in electrical and plumbing later this year, all while earning income and gaining valuable on-the-job experience with David Stephens Plumbing and Electrical.

This partnership creates a powerful pathway for students to enter the skilled trades and for employers to strengthen the construction workforce in our region.

Interested in starting your career journey today?

Visit our website to see the full calendar of upcoming courses and enroll today!

Tuition assistance is available for those who qualify.

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