Michael Smith, Director of the Colorado Homebuilding Academy, joins us on the AOC to share how his nonprofit is tackling the labor shortage crisis in the construction industry.
With a slogan, “Solving the labor needs of today; developing the workforce demands of tomorrow,” the Academy fulfills this mission through several programs. With a focus on collaboration with construction business partners for funding and partnering with public schools for programming, The Academy is garnering national attention for their innovative and important work.
PROGRAMS
Construction Skills Bootcamp is an entry-level construction training course that provides students the skills to start a career in the construction industry. It is an accessible program for all ages and genders that removes barriers to employment in construction trades. Construction Skills Bootcamp gives students the skills and confidence to apply for front-line construction positions, and employers trust that Academy bootcamp graduates are ready to work safe and efficiently from the first day on the job.
Construction Management & Estimating: This series of courses was developed in direct partnership with the Community College System to prepare students for professional careers in homebuilding. The innovative program model combines online coursework with hands-on training and career coaching. Students earn certifications from OSHA and Colorado Homebuilding Academy, as well as credit for prior learning through the community college system in Colorado. These 16 credits will count towards a 60-credit Associate in Applied Science – Construction Management degree.
The Youth Construction Apprenticeship is a workforce development initiative for Denver Metro youth. It is a two-semester career exploration & job training program for young people that have proven their interest in our industry and a commitment to construction industry employment. Over two academic semesters, youth apprentices learn construction industry skills through hands-on instruction and paid, on-the-job training internships.
Building Pathways is the Academy’s in-school youth training program. The Academy partners with high schools across the Front Range to deliver hands-on construction training and education both at the Academy Construction Lab and at partnering High School campuses, and works to integrates NAHB Student Chapter affiliation at each Building Pathways partner school. Building Pathways supports construction career pathways education across the Denver Metro area.
Discover Homebuilding Program - The Academy created this video series to highlight the benefits and challenges of various careers in homebuilding. Each video features a local Colorado employer.
Michael comes from the for-profit construction sector and has over 20 years of experience in business development and management. Michael turned his focus to the non-profit workforce development sector when he co-founded Colorado Construction Institute (CCI). After directing CCI for four years, he is thrilled to bring his experience of building the next generation of trade workers to Colorado Homebuilding Academy. When he is not working, Michael enjoys golfing, sailing, and spending time with his wife, Mychelle.
Professionals and Links Referenced in Show
