TACOMA…The Construction Trades Training Academy officially launched its first cohort of classes today, in downtown Tacoma providing post-secondary students and transitioning adults from across the greater Puget Sound access to industry-driven training at no cost.

Designed and funded by the Washington Home Builders Foundation (WHBF) in partnership with BIAW and the Home Builders Institute(HBI), the academy provides participants with essential skills and places them directly into jobs where employers need them most.

“The academy was founded to help tackle the construction industry’s skilled labor shortage by offering a complete hands-on training-to-placement program,” said WHBF Director Al Audette. “We are excited for the positive impact this will have on both graduates and their communities, helping them secure stable, well-paying careers.”

Classroom teaching and real-life experience all under one roof

The first eight-week cohort begins this week with 18 total students enrolled. Each cohort allows room for up to 20 students and provides them with the information, education, tools and skills they need to thrive in the construction industry.

Located in the Goodwill Milgard Work Opportunity Center, the academy leverages the HBI’s Pre-Apprenticeship Certified Training (PACT) curriculum, integrating hands-on learning, classroom instruction and real-world experience all under one roof. Students will also gain jobsite experience through volunteer build days with Tacoma/Pierce County Habitat for Humanity.

High demand for construction workers

The U.S. construction industry has an average of 377,000 job openings per month. The academy works to address that issue by emphasizing job placement, mentorship and ongoing support for students and industry partners, ensuring that graduates receive the necessary training to be fully prepared to succeed in the field.

Participants will receive mentorship and learn construction basics (math, safety, materials and tools), carpentry fundamentals, OSHA standards, employability skills and jobsite readiness from industry experts and home builders across the state.

Ensuring success for graduates

Randy Miller will serve as the academy's lead instructor after recently completing the HBI Instructor Certification program. With over 30 years in federal and municipal government service, he has held roles in aviation ordnance, security, legal support, officer training and more. He holds a Master of Arts in Criminal Justice from American Military University and a higher education teaching certificate from Humboldt State University.

The academy was established in partnership between the WHBF, Master Builders Association of Pierce County’s Building Opportunities for Learning the Trades (BOLT) Foundation, Goodwill of the Olympic and Rainier Region and the City of Tacoma. The WHBF, with the support of Goodwill of the Olympic and Rainier Region, will operate the academy and place graduates directly into jobs within the Tacoma and surrounding communities.

Support the Construction Trades Training Academy

The academy offers an array of sponsorship and volunteer opportunities for industry members including guest presentations, mock interview participation, site visits and more. Material donations valued at market cost are also accepted.

Enrollment is now open for the academy’s April 2025 cohort. Learn more about enrollment and how to support the academy’s efforts.

About the Washington Home Builders Foundation

The Washington Home Builders Foundation (WHBF) was founded in 2012 by BIAW as a way to address educational and workforce needs within the building industry through charitable activities. The purpose of the Washington Home Builders Foundation is to empower and inspire the next generation of builders by advancing building-related education, unlocking academic opportunities and career possibilities while fostering a culture of innovation, enthusiasm and excellence in the building industry.

Since its inception, the Washington Home Builders Foundation and BIAW have awarded over $830,000 in scholarships and grants. The Washington Home Builders Foundation is a 501(c)3 charitable organization as classified by the Internal Revenue Code. Your donations may be eligible for charitable contribution tax deductions. Donate today.