Testimonials

Testimonials About Our Building Courses

Build Smart Institute is all about guiding individuals toward brighter career futures in the construction field. We offer several beginner, intermediate, and advanced-level courses for developing skills in the trades and construction management roles. If you’re wondering how helpful our building courses are, take a look at some of our graduates’ testimonials on their learning experiences with us.

What Others Are Saying About Their Experience with Build Smart Institute

Build Smart Student with certificates.
David Moore 
Cornerstone Building Brands
Construction Management Certificate Program Graduate

After graduating high school, David entered the workforce unsure of his future. “I finished high school, started working, and never went back to college.”

Later, as a team member at Cornerstone Building Brands, David knew he would pursue a career in the construction industry. That’s when his area manager suggested he consider the Construction Management Certificate program offered at Ferrum College in partnership with Build Smart Institute.

“They offered to pay for my school and I took advantage of that opportunity,” David shares. He went on to enroll in multiple courses including CORE Fundamentals of Construction, Blueprint Reading, and Project Supervision, both offered online; while continuing his employment at Cornerstone.

By participating in online courses, David benefitted from the opportunity to train on his schedule; continuing his employment and earning income to support he and his family while also gaining new skills.

“My experience at Build Smart has been nothing short of awesome! What I enjoyed most was how any question I had was answered and no question was a dumb one. I’ve learned a lot! The atmosphere is warm and welcoming! Build Smart taught me how to be even more hands on with my tools and refreshed my math skills.”

During his time in the training program, David traveled to Richmond, Virginia to attend the 6th Annual Virginia Builder’s Summit hosted by the Home Builder’s Association of Virginia. “Meeting the builders in Richmond was awesome!”

David recommends Build Smart Institute to those finishing high school and looking to enter the trades. “It’s a great way to get them geared into the working world because as we know, in life nothing is handed to you. Build Smart will help you figure out what you want to do and who you want to be in the trades.”

David successfully completed his training courses in November, earning multiple nationally recognized credentials from the National Center for Construction Education and Research and the Home Builder’s Institute, his OSHA 10, First Aid / CPR certifications, and credit for courses completed at Ferrum College. Most importantly, he recently received a promotion at Cornerstone Building Brands!
“I’m excited to see where I could be in 2-3 years.”
A Photo of Levi Weddle | Building Courses

Levi Weddle
Southern Air, Inc., Full-Time Employee

Core Fundamentals of Construction Graduate

"Before I came to Build Smart Institute, I had never really considered a job in the trades. I was working at a job where I wasn't happy, and no career advancement was likely. Build Smart Institute's Core Fundamentals program provided an introduction to the trades and related safety practices, and some experience with hand and power tools. As valuable as that education was, it was only the start of many opportunities for networking, volunteering, seeing other students succeed, and exploring a career at Southern Air, Inc."
A Photo of Allen Harris Holding a Certificate | Building Courses

Allen Harris

Core Fundamentals of Construction Graduate

"My biggest takeaway from the Build Smart program is how comprehensive and thorough it was. I would say the Build Smart program is set apart from other programs or college courses because not only are the teachers masters at construction, but they also care about the students and love what they do. The advice I would give to new students coming into the program is you have made the right decision. This is the best place to learn construction because they actually make sure that you have learned the skills. Build Smart is a wonderful place if someone wants to learn." 
A Photo of Greg Lionberger | Building Courses

Greg Lionberger, 
Lionberger Construction Company

Project Management and Blueprint Reading Graduate

"I recently rejoined my family construction business and wanted to jump-start my knowledge without tying up other company employees. Build Smart Institute was the perfect answer in terms of content, timing, and cost. I took classes on blueprint reading and project management and look forward to taking other classes in the future. My classes at Build Smart gave me a much greater appreciation for the level of complexity and attention to detail required for even small projects, much less the enormous technical marvels built in places like Las Vegas. The instructors are all former construction professionals who teach using real-world examples based on their own personal experiences. Every staff member made it clear they are there because they genuinely believe the construction industry can provide a wonderful profession, not just a job, particularly for those without college degrees. In that, they understand sometimes emotional support is even more important than classroom teaching. As a society, I do not believe we give the construction industry nearly enough credit for its role in creating a better world. From hospitals and medical clinics to libraries and schools, our industry touches people’s lives all day every day. Build Smart Institute provides a new and exciting path for people to join a profession that has literally endless opportunities."

Take the Next Step Toward a Rewarding Career

Whether you want to learn construction trades for an entry-level job or prepare for a management role, Build Smart Institute will help you make it happen. Our instructors will provide you with valuable training and resources to prepare you for any project challenges you may face in the field. Contact the Build Smart team today to sign up or ask about our courses.
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