The Home Builders Institute, the workforce development arm of the National Association of Home Builders, launched its Make It Happen career outreach campaign at the 2006 International Builders’ Show last month in Orlando.
HBI Chairman Michael Sivage of Michael Sivage Custom Homes, Albuquerque, N.M., sees the initiative as a critical endeavor by HBI to reach out to young people and the parents, counselors and teachers who influence their career decisions. The campaign was designed to showcase the many rewarding careers in today’s home building industry.
“With 18 million homes and apartments needed to meet the nation’s housing demands over the next decade, Make It Happen will help educate young people on the significant career opportunities this thriving industry has to offer,” said Sivage. “We created this program to let people know that no matter what their talents or skills, home building has a place for them.”
Funded in part by a $75,000 contribution from the National Housing Endowment, NAHB’s philanthropic arm, Make It Happen showcases the variety of careers that comprise residential construction - from construction management, interior design and marketing to mortgage banking, sales and the trades.
As part of the campaign, HBI will offer printed educational materials in English and Spanish and a short video/DVD highlighting key sections such as Make It Pay, Make It Yours and Make it Work. A new Web site, www.buildingcareers.org will also offer industry facts and information on job growth projections, college construction programs and salaries.
To order materials or to get further information, please visit www.buildingcareers.org or contact Deanna Lewis at the Home Builders Institute, 800-795-7955, ext. 8927.