BuildStrong Academy - Greater New Orleans

HBI is proud to recognize Regions Bank for their generous support of our Student Success Fund for Military graduates.

Their contribution plays a vital role in breaking down barriers for veterans by helping provide essential resources such as housing, transportation, and tools—support that ensures every graduate has what they need to succeed in our construction training programs.

Thanks to Regions, more veterans are equipped to build strong careers and continue serving their communities in meaningful ways. We are deeply grateful for this partnership and commitment. 🇺🇸

We asked the graduating class from Fort Campbell for One Word to describe HBI. Their responses were powerful: Profitable. Phenomenal. Tubular. Electrifying. Friendly. Opportunities. Great. Amazing. Teamwork. These words tell the story of what strong training, supportive instructors, and hands-on skills can do for a young person’s future. Help us continue creating opportunities for students across the country. Donate today: https://hbi.org/donate/ #HBI #JobCorps #StudentSuccess #SupportStudents #SkilledTrades #ConstructionTraining #DonateToday #WorkforceDevelopment

🚨 Attention New Orleans 🚨

This is what hands-on construction training looks like in the Crescent City. 🏗️

At the BuildStrong Academy - Greater New Orleans students train in person, work with real tools, and build foundational construction skills alongside experienced trades professionals - all in a program designed for how New Orleans builds.

What’s happening here 👇
🔨 Learn basic construction skills
🦺 Safety training and job-site readiness
📜 Earn certificates after completion
📅 In-person classes, Monday–Friday | 8AM–4PM
⏱️ Up to 9 weeks of FREE training
👷 Open to adults 18+ | No experience required

Practical skills. Local impact.
Built for New Orleans.

Learn more - https://hbi.org/buildstrong-nola/

ONE WORD. That’s all we asked. HBI students described the program as electrifying ⚡️ productive and unforgettable but the most impactful word we heard was NEEDED. Because this program opens doors, builds real skills, and creates pathways to meaningful careers. For so many students, HBI is not optional, it is essential. If you believe this work is needed, give today - https://hbi.org/donate/ One Word. One Mission. Thousands Changed. #hbi #homebuilders #construction #skilledtrades

BuildStrong NOLA Is Changing Lives ⚒️

Meet Errol Sanders, a proud graduate of the BuildStrong Academy - Greater New Orleans .

After 30 years of service in the U.S. Air Force and 14 years as a government employee, Errol chose to invest in himself and turn his passion for building into a new career. He discovered BuildStrong NOLA through a Facebook ad and enrolled to strengthen his carpentry skills, gain confidence, and open new doors in the construction industry.

“I learned how to build a house, sharpened my interviewing skills, and gained the confidence to build any structure,” Errol shared.

That preparation paid off. After graduating, Errol secured a spot in the Electrical Apprenticeship Program with IBEW Local 130—proof that BuildStrong NOLA delivers real pathways to real careers.

His message to future students says it all:
“Don’t limit yourself and don’t be afraid to try. This program is an opportunity to change your life.”

WorkforceDevelopment
📍 Hands-on training
📍 Industry-recognized credentials
📍 Career-ready graduates
📍 No-cost training

🔗 Learn More: https://hbi.org/buildstrong-nola/

Thank you to real estate broker AND BuildStrong grad for speaking with our students on her journey of entering and succeeding in the real estate industry.

The support, time, and experience that we receive from our business community are invaluable to our students as they are embarking on their new careers in construction.

Thank you!

On this Giving Tuesday, we are thinking about students like Charles. 💙

When he transitioned out of the Army, he was searching for a new path and a way to rebuild his life. HBI’s electrical training helped him discover his passion, gain confidence, and begin a career that brings him pride and stability.

Now he dreams of teaching and helping others do the same.

“HBI gave me the opportunity to follow my passion and build a career I love.”

Give today and help more students turn uncertainty into opportunity. Your support truly changes lives.

Donate here - https://hbi.org/donate/

Our very own grad!😍😍😍

Thank you to fellow grad Kevin Jones Jr for the amazing photography!

Meet Barrett Jones – HBI Graduate (July 2025)

📍 BuildStrong Academy of Greater New Orleans
🔨 Carpentry

Before HBI, Barrett was working three jobs—valet downtown, valet at the casino, and bartending—earning just $22,000 a year and searching for a real career path.

“I really wanted a change, so I started looking for a career change and came across HBI.”

At the Academy, Barrett discovered his passion for carpentry. He quickly stood out by arriving early, staying late, helping his classmates, and learning everything he could from instructors and shop time.

Today, Barrett is a proud member of the Carpenters Union, earning $21/hour and planning to use his carpentry skills to support his community and eventually start his own business.

His message for future students?
“I would encourage anyone and everyone to join HBI. It gives you a new perspective about life and what skills you can gain.”

Help us continue changing lives through training and opportunity.
Donate today: hbi.org/donate

Support HBI’s Student Success Fund At the Home Builders Institute (HBI), we believe that every student deserves a fair shot at success—regardless of their background or financial situation. That’s why we created the Student Success Fund: a flexible, donor-supported initiative designed to help students overcome non-traditional bar...