Over $35,000 available for Florida students pursuing careers in building and construction

The Future Builders of America (FBA) is offering over $35,000 in scholarships to Florida students pursuing careers in the building and construction industry. Applications can be found at http://futurebuildersofamerica.org/careers/student-scholarships/ and are due to the FBA office by April 20, 2015. The FBA created the scholarship fund to assist in addressing the pressing need for a better educated and trained construction industry workforce. Despite the incredible growth of Florida’s population and economy, the construction industry is facing a skilled workforce shortage. A recent survey by the National Association of Home Builders found 46 percent of builders reported a worker shortage last year. That's the highest across the nine trades surveyed since 2000, and even slightly higher than the peak of the housing boom in 2005 when housing starts were running at the pace of about two million a year, or about twice the current rate. FBA President, Alan Anderson said, “The scholarship program and FBA overall is critical to the future of our industry in Florida. The building and construction industry is growing and the opportunity for qualified workers in coming years in substantial.” Since the inception of the scholarship program, the FBA has awarded over $100,000 in scholarship funds to students interested in careers in the construction industry. “We typically set aside ten percent of the operating budget to be awarded annually through the scholarship program,” continued Anderson. “To help promote the construction industry as a great career opportunity to Florida’s future employees, visionary industry leaders created the Future Builders of America. The mission is to engage in construction educational activities and help youth understand and pursue rewarding careers in construction,” said Executive Director, Cheryl Harris. The FBA helps students gain real world experience by linking them with the local building community. Students also have the opportunity to hear guest speakers and participate in field trips to building sites. Along with opportunities for summer and post-graduation employment, the FBA club meetings also provide for camaraderie and an opportunity for students to improve their leadership and teamwork skills.