Workforce development remains a central challenge for construction companies, making structured internal training programs an important source of skilled labor and future project leadership.
Nabholz Construction Corporation's Nabholz University has provided employees with training and advancement opportunities since its establishment in 1973. The program originally launched as an in-house carpentry apprenticeship and was approved by the U.S. Department of Labor.
The program was created to address growing workforce requirements and provide employees with a pathway into skilled construction careers. Over time, participants have advanced into positions including superintendents, project managers and management roles.
Nabholz University has developed beyond its original apprenticeship model and now includes four craft excellence programs, four project execution programs and four leadership development programs.
The program also incorporates mentorship networks and additional learning opportunities. More than 800 Nabholz employees have graduated from at least one Nabholz University program, according to the company.
The company's workforce strategy also includes tuition reimbursement for eligible full-time employees who have completed at least one year with Nabholz and choose to pursue degrees through trade schools or universities.
For construction contractors, structured training can help develop workers for both field and management positions while providing employees with opportunities to advance within an organization.
Nabholz's combination of apprenticeship training, craft education, project execution instruction, leadership development and tuition assistance provides multiple pathways for employees to build construction-related skills.
The program also demonstrates how contractors can use internal education and career development to support workforce needs while creating advancement opportunities for existing employees.
Source: Nabholtz.
