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Build Smart Institute & Ferrum College Announce Partnership
Virginia Secretary of Labor Bryan Slater brings remarks during the announcement of the partnership to provide construction trade education.
Learn About the Partnership
New Classes Starting Soon!
Whether you are new to the construction industry or a seasoned professional, Build Smart Institute is here to help you advance your skills and career.
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Train. Test. Equip.

Build Smart Institute™

COMPREHENSIVE PROGRAMS FOR CAREERS IN CONSTRUCTION & CAREER ADVANCEMENT

The mission of Build Smart Institute™ is to educate and train individuals to become career-ready and advance within construction industry occupations. With a combination of virtual learning, classroom instruction and hands-on laboratory skill practice, Build Smart Institute will train you, test you, and give you the tools to be successful.

With Build Smart Institute™, YOU will stand out from the crowd.

Training Opportunities at Build Smart Institute

Five students work with an instructor during a carpentry trades course

Trades Training

Build Smart Institute offers beginner, intermediate, and advanced technical skills training in carpentry, electrical, heating and cooling, and plumbing.

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Construction worker looking at plans with two other workers in the background of the construction site.

Professional Development

Professional Development courses help your employees who are ready to take on more responsibility or leadership positions gain the skills to excel.

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Two construction workers in PPE working on a wall in an industrial environment

Customized Courses

Build Smart Institute offers and creates custom courses to meet the specific needs of your company.

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What's Happening at Build Smart Institute

Build Smart announces fall class schedule. Register today!
Earn both college credit and industry-recognized credentials thanks to Build Smart & Ferrum College. Learn more.
Build Smart Celebrates the Graduating Class of 2024. Learn more.
Build Smart Employees Honored During Annual Home Builders Association of Virginia Conference.

Discover What Else Is Happening!

Career Exploration

Ideal for Middle School Students, High School Students, Adult Learners, & Apprenticeship Training.

Students Will Learn:

Basic Employability Skills
Basic Construction Materials
Basic Safety (including OSHA 10 Certification)
Construction Math
Blueprint Reading
& More!

Career Preparation

Designed for Apprenticeship Participants, Recent High School Graduates, Displaced Workers & Career Opportunity Seekers.

Classes May Include:

DOLI Apprentice Classroom Hours
Technical Trade-Specific Training
Building Assembly Training
Safety Training
& More!

Career Advancement

Perfect for Construction Professionals, Established Tradesmen, Project Managers & Project Seekers.

Programs Can Include:

Introduction to Lean Construction
Superintendent Training
Project Management Training
Mentor Training
& More!

BuildSmartVirtual Portal

An online learning portal provided by Build Smart Institute™, BuildSmartVirtual.com was created to support construction training. Classroom sessions aren’t always an option. With a virtual learning approach, BuildSmartVirtual can be utilized as a stand-alone knowledge competency instructional program or a hybridized approach with blended virtual and classroom learning. BuildSmartVirtual provides hybrid learning for the 21st Century student.

Learning Tracks for Students to Monitor Progress

Training Videos for Construction Industry Relevant Topics

Knowledge Quizzes to Validate Subject Competency

Competency Badges to Keep Students Motivated

Construction Industry Safety Training

Online Training for a Variety of Construction Tools

Learn Plumbing, Electric, and Framing Basics

Optional In-Person, Hands-On Training at Build Smart Institute™ Available

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