84 Lumber and The Home Builders Institute (HBI) are joining forces on a new national partnership that will enhance HBI’s BuildStrong Academies, a network of community-based trade schools designed to prepare individuals for successful careers in the residential construction industry.
With a shared commitment to workforce development, HBI and 84 Lumber aim to provide critical opportunities to individuals seeking careers in the skilled trades, including addressing workforce shortages in high-demand areas. As part of this partnership, 84 Lumber will support HBI’s mission to educate, inspire, and prepare individuals for careers in the building industry, particularly through scholarships and community engagement.
The Home Builders Institute (HBI) President Ed Brady says the relationship helps build the next generation of skilled tradespeople. “Their support and collaboration underscore the critical importance of investing in workforce development and equipping individuals with the skills needed to succeed in the construction industry. Together, we are not only addressing the skilled labor shortage but also creating meaningful opportunities for careers that transform lives and strengthen communities. With the generous support of 84 Lumber, HBI can continue Building Careers and Changing Lives.”
The BuildStrong Approach
84 Lumber will fund eight $5,000 scholarships for students attending the BuildStrong Academies in 2025. These scholarships, two available per academy, will make it possible for more students to access the training and resources they need to build careers in the construction industry. Additionally, 84 Lumber is sponsoring the 2025 Shirley McVay Wiseman Award, which will be presented at the HBI reception during the International Builders Show (IBS) in Las Vegas.
The 2025 Shirley McVay Wiseman Award—named after the first woman to serve as president of the National Association of Home Builders—honors outstanding individuals or teams for their exceptional contributions in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the business world.
The award highlights efforts that drive systemic change and promote greater access and opportunity for underrepresented groups. The 2025 recognition will be awarded to Christina Celata, a former student at HBI’s Benjamin Franklin Career Center in Boston, Massachusetts. After overcoming homelessness and addiction, Celata, who had prior construction industry experience after working for her father for a few years, regained her confidence with the assistance and guidance of HBI’s instructors. Now 25, Celata has 25 years of construction trade experience overall is working as a carpenter after being hired by the Carpenter’s Union.
“84 Lumber is deeply committed to supporting the communities we serve and creating pathways to success for individuals in the skilled trades,” says Amy Smiley, VP of Marketing at 84 Lumber. “Partnering with HBI allows us to contribute directly to the development of a highly skilled workforce while helping to provide HBI graduates with meaningful career opportunities within our organization. 84 Lumber also offers training programs and career development opportunities, which means even if you’re starting in a skilled trade or looking to advance, there are options for growth within the company,” said Smiley.
HBI has BuildStrong Academies in Orlando, New Orleans, Sacramento, Houston, Charlotte and Phoenix, HBI offers a robust curriculum in trade skills, job readiness, and career development. These academies provide training and certifications that are industry-recognized, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet the needs of employers. They aim to provide comprehensive training and placement services to individuals from diverse backgrounds, including opportunity youth, veterans, separating military, and justice-involved individuals.
HBI has plans to expand to 10 other locations in the next five years. This partnership between HBI and 84 Lumber represents a powerful collaboration that will not only strengthen the skilled trades workforce but also support economic development in communities across the country.
84 Lumber is the leading supplier of building materials, manufactured components, and industry leading services for single and multifamily residences and commercial buildings. The company operates more than 320 facilities in 34 states and is continuing to grow. To learn more, visit www.84lumber.com or follow 84 Lumber on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn for more information.
HBI is the country’s leading provider of training for careers in the residential construction industry. With programs across the U.S., HBI offers industry-recognized certifications, career development, and job placement services. HBI’s mission is to change lives by preparing individuals for successful careers in construction and the building trades.
Founded in 1956 and headquartered in Eighty Four, Pennsylvania, 84 Lumber is the country’s largest privately held supplier of building materials, manufactured components, and industry-leading services for single and multifamily residences and commercial buildings.
The company operates 320 facilities which include stores, component manufacturing plants, custom door shops, and engineered wood product centers in 34 states. 84 Lumber also offers turnkey installation services for a variety of products, including framing, insulation, siding, windows, roofing, decking, and drywall.
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