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

Trade Talk Times

May 2025

You're invited to join us on June 17th, for Build Smart Institute's 5th annual graduation ceremony! This is a special evening recognizing the accomplishments of those who've chosen the skilled trades as their future.

We will be joined by Mayor of Roanoke, Joseph Cobb providing remarks, and keynote speaker, Craig Toalson, Chief Executive Officer of the Home Builders Association of Virginia.

Graduates from Build Smart's technical trades courses between July 2024 - June 2025 will be recognized for their success, while enjoying light refreshments. We will also award the winners of Build Smart's annual Founder Awards.

RSVP by June 9th by clicking below:

RSVP Here

Photographs from last year's ceremony are below:

Summer Programs in the Trades

Build Smart is gearing up for a busy summer!

Take your career to the next level with hands-on training in the trades! Our summer programs are designed to equip you with the essential skills and national credentials needed to excel in high-demand fields like construction, electrical, heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), and more.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your expertise, these programs offer flexible schedules, expert instructors, and practical experience to set you up for success.

Don’t miss the opportunity to build a brighter future, sign up today and start mastering your craft this summer!

Classes are offered at Build Smart's Roanoke location, the New River Valley, and New College Institute, located in Martinsville, VA.

Tuition assistance is available to those who qualify. Visit our website to learn more today!

CORE Fundamentals of Construction

Introduction to Electrical

HVAC 101

Enroll Today

Concrete Camp

Yes, you read that right!

We are proud to partner with Procon Inc . to offer the area's first concrete camp. Starting July 21st, high school age students are invited to join us for a week long experience in the world of concrete.

Students will participate in hands on learning that includes pouring concrete slabs, installation of rebar, and column layout. They will also receive classroom instruction in basic construction safety, blueprint reading, and the fundamentals of concrete.

Thanks to the generous sponsorship of Procon Inc., the camp is being provided free of charge.

Do you know a teenager who is curious about construction; specifically the field of concrete? This is the perfect opportunity to expose young people to the training and careers available to them in this in demand occupation.

Visit our website to learn more and sign up today - slots are limited!

Enroll Today

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—on your time.

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.

NEW:

Heavy Equipment Operator Training

Build Smart is proud to announce the launch of a Heavy Equipment Operator training program beginning this fall, designed to equip students with the skills and experience needed to thrive in the construction industry.

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.

This initiative is made possible through a partnership with Excel Equipment, which will provide the heavy machinery and field access necessary to bring classroom instruction to life. 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.

"The skills gained through real-world experience are invaluable in this career, and we understand the importance of offering this critical training," said Michelle Ramaker, President of Build Smart Institute. "By bridging the gap between theory and practice, we’re helping to prepare the next generation of heavy equipment operators for rewarding careers in a high-demand field."

For more information on the Heavy Equipment Operator training program contact us at info@buildsmartinstitute.com or call (540) 900-3340.

call (540) 900-3340

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