This article is from HBAV's historical archive. Some formatting may differ from current articles.
Stat: A Trained, Affordable Workforce Remains a Major Priority for Home Builders
October is Careers in Construction Month, and our industry is striving to change the narrative about working in the trades. It’s never been more critical because:
- 71% of home builders report that the availability and cost of workers is one of the most significant challenges they are currently facing.
- This translates into higher housing costs, increased home prices, difficulty completing projects on time, and lower economic growth.
Current situation: One of the biggest challenges that prevent students from exploring construction careers stems from long-standing stereotypes and negative perceptions, especially among parents. As the primary influencers in their children’s career plans, parents play a crucial role in shaping their perceptions of our industry.
What’s next: An NAHB-commissioned study explored parental perceptions of career decision-making and influences on their children. The report led to four recommended strategies:
- Share career experience and stay engaged, because the most powerful agents of change are current professionals who talk about construction careers and participate in their community.
- Connect with schools and teachers, who are trusted resources for career guidance and planning.
- Focus on job security and career pathways, since parents want to know that jobs pay well, allow for work-life balance and come with opportunities to advance.
- Highlight education and training, beginning early with part-time jobs and internships.
Building Code: New Building Code Enforced Statewide Jan. 18, 2025
Every three years, Virginia updates the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building code that originates from the International Code Council’s model I-Codes. HBAV participates with the Virginia Board of Housing throughout the code adoption process. We have new resources to help you implement the updated codes, which will be enforced starting Jan. 18, 2025.
- Listen to the Virginia Builders Summit education session
- Review our October Regulatory Memo
- Review Residential Code updates in the 2021 Code Change Companion Guide, starting on page 62
If your organization still needs training, don’t forget that online code update training is now available for free through the Code Academy Learning Center.
Event: Day on the Hill on Jan. 29, 2025 in Richmond
One of our most important annual events is our Day on the Hill, which will take place on Show up and show legislators that home building matters. Coordinate with your local HBA to schedule meetings with members of the General Assembly between 7:30 and 11 a.m. After meetings at the General Assembly, HBAV will host all members and guests for lunch and a debriefing. Register now.
In the meantime, your HBAV team has begun to develop our Legislative Priorities for the 2025 General Assembly, which begins on Jan. 8, 2025. The HBAV Legislative Committee is currently reviewing 32 legislative recommendations submitted by local HBAs and members, and it will set the priorities before the end of the year. You can also review our legislative accomplishments from 2024.
Craig Toalson, CAE
Chief Executive Officer
Home Builders Association of Virginia