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

Trade Talk Times

January 2025

A new year brings new opportunities

Build Smart Institute's winter & spring 2025 class schedule is enrolling now. Start the new year off right by investing in your future!

According to Builder Magazine, the construction industry will need to attract more than 450,000 new workers on top of normal hiring to meet industry demand this year.

Enroll in newly customized classes for those seeking to improve their skills in the trades; including drywall installation and trim and secure your place in this high demand field.

For those seeking to earn a degree while training, learn more about Build Smart's partnership with Ferrum College offering dual enrollment courses in Construction Management.

Most professional development courses are available in person or virtually and financial assistance is available to those who qualify.

Using National Center for Construction Education and Research and Home Builders Institute curricula; all trades training courses provide industry standard training and result in nationally recognized credentials.

To learn more and enroll, visit our website or click below.

View Upcoming Courses

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Impact Report

2024 was a remarkable year for Build Smart Institute and its trainees.

Since opening in 2020, Build Smart has experienced an increase in the number of people seeking training in the skilled trades.

Last year was no exception, with the largest number of individuals in our history, completing training to grow and enhance their skills in the construction industry.

As we reflect on the year's successes, it is the achievements of our graduates that make us most proud.

We look forward to sharing more of their stories with you this year!

Instructor Spotlight

Charlie Smith, Professional Development and Electrical Instructor

Charlie has over 40 years of experience in construction, design, electrical engineering, and project management. After receiving his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, he advanced from an electrical apprenticeship (gaining his Master Electrician license) to senior-level facility management, primarily in hospital systems; where he enjoyed a lengthy career.

Read Charlie's Full Bio Here

Courses Available at New College Institute

Build Smart Institute has partnered with New College Institute to offer courses in Martinsville, VA.

Take advantage of localized training options while benefitting from the expertise of Build Smart Instructors.

Introduction to Electrical begins February 10th.

Enroll Now

Hands on Learning Gives Back

Trainees in each CORE Fundamentals of Construction class at Build Smart build several small structures during the hands on laboratory portion of their course.

Each structure includes the components found in building including framing, a flooring system, roof, and finishing.

Completing this build, provides students with the hands on training they need to utilize the skills they've learned during class.

Recently, we learned that New Freedom Farm, located in Bedford, VA was looking for outdoor structures for their goats.

Build Smart stepped up and donated two structures for their use.

Structures built by Build Smart students were also featured in this year's Blue Ridge PBS Winter Wonderland, in Roanoke VA.

Be on the look out for new items built by Build Smart CORE students in 2025!

To learn more about the CORE Fundamentals of Construction course and the skills trainees learn click below.

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A New Beginning

Through a partnership with the Greater Roanoke Workforce Development Board, Goodwill Industries of the Valleys, Region Five Adult Education, and Build Smart Institute; Joneel Lewis participated in the Youth Build Roanoke program to gain training in construction.

Joneel completed training in the CORE Fundamentals of Construction program this winter.

"I had a fantastic experience in class, and I’m grateful for the Instructors’ dedication and support. Their passion shines through with every topic and lesson."

"They create an encouraging environment that every student feels comfortable asking questions and participating. This class was one of the highlights of my learning experience. I’m so grateful for the confidence and knowledge I gained from this class.”

Thank you Joneel, we are so proud of you!

Enroll Now - Seating is Limited

Build Smart's winter and spring 2025 course calendar is enrolling now.

Choose from a variety of trades training and professional development courses to grow your construction and trades skills. Most of the professional development courses are available online or in person.

Visit our website today to learn more and enroll.

call (540) 900-3340

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