What's Happening at Build Smart Institute

Announcements and Construction Industry News

The Build Smart Institute team believes that construction education is key to becoming a fine builder, ready to tackle any challenge that arises in projects. Besides opportunities for learning and career advancement in construction, we bring you the latest construction industry news and articles to supplement your knowledge. You will also find company announcements and updates on our classes.

Interested in how Build Smart is supporting the community and our neighbors? Visit Build Smart in the Community to learn more.
Officials pictured outside of the historic Montvale school building receiving a check for rennovations to the building where it is planned for Build Smart Institute's expansion.

Build Smart Institute Plans Montvale Expansion for Summer 2027

New status means greater impact

Build Smart Institute’s planned summer 2027 expansion to Montvale will bring additional skilled trades training to the area, serve more students, and help return a historic school to an educational purpose. Training will include welding, industrial maintenance, and HVACR, and will expand access for students in western Bedford County and surrounding communities. Learn more...

Build Smart Institute earns 501(c)(3) recognition

New status means greater impact

This recognition opens new opportunities to expand access to skilled-trades training through charitable giving, grants, and community partnerships. With 94% of our students receiving tuition assistance so far in 2026, this milestone strengthens our ability to help more individuals build skills for rewarding careers in the construction industry.  Learn more...
Student mixing mortar as other students practice laying brick.

Masonry Training Now Available at Build Smart

Classes start in October 2026

Build Smart Institute is expanding its skilled trades training with a new Masonry program launching this fall. Through hands-on instruction using NCCER curriculum, students can build practical, in-demand skills and earn an industry-recognized NCCER Masonry credential. Learn more...
student on knees leveling concrete.

FREE Future Builders Academy Camp for Teens

July 6 - 17, 2026

Enrollment is open for this summer's FREE Future Builder's Academy.  This hands-on experience is designed for high school aged students who are ready to learn real skills and explore careers in construction on Ferrum College's beautiful campus. Spend week one diving into concrete and the second rolling up your sleeves in the world of carpentry, guided by industry pros.

Youth may enroll for one week or both! Spots will fill fast! Learn more...
Short Sleeve Shirt with the following: A shield with the American Flag and the words Supporting Construction Industry and Training with a hardhat, wrench, and hammer.
Shirt pictured with the following text: Supporting Construction Industry and Training. Image of hook lifting the American Flag

Build Smart Merchandise Supports Build U Scholarship

New Online Store Now Available!

You can now support the Build U Scholarship Fund by purchasing official Build Smart Institute merchandise. Every item sold helps provide training opportunities for students pursuing careers in the skilled trades. Learn more . . .
Five individuals standing in front of the Build Smart Institute banner holding awards

Build Smart Celebrates 2025 Graduating Class

Students celebrated for accomplishments in trades courses

Build Smart Institute held a graduation ceremony for its fifth graduating class on June 17, 2025. During the event, in addition to celebrating each graduate, Founder's Awards were also awarded to individuals who excelled during their training. Read more . . .
OSHA LOGO

OSHA 30-Hour Training Now Available at Build Smart

First Class to Start on April 28, 2025

Build Smart is excited to offer OSHA 30-hour training to trainees in Roanoke, and through partners in Franklin County and Martinsville. Learn more . . .
Electrician in a hard hat working in an electrical box and holding wire cutters

Build Smart and New College Institute Partner

New Partnership Expands Trades Training Certification in the Region

Build Smart is excited to partner with New College Institute (NCI) to provide training to individuals in Martinsville. The first classes will begin in mid-February. Learn more . . .
A Photo of Michelle Ramaker | Construction Professionals

Build Smart Team Members Serve on Business Panel

Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) Panels Review Instructional Framework for Trades Curricula

Build Smart's president, Michelle Ramaker and two instructors recently participated in two VDOE business panels to review the instructional framework for trades curricula. Read the story . . .
Header for Trade Talk Times Newsletter with Build Smart Institute logo

Build Smart Institute Launches Newsletter

Trade Talk Times Keeps Readers Up to Date with Industry Training News

Build Smart Institute's new newsletter will keep you up to date on what's happening at Build Smart and in the industry. Sign up to receive the newsletter or read past editions today!
Two Women in Front of the US and Virginia Flag | Construction Industry News

Build Smart Representative Appointed to Virginia Apprenticeship Council

Governor Glenn Youngkin has Named Michelle Ramaker to Council

Michelle Ramaker, Vice President of Build Smart Institute was sworn-in as a member of the Apprenticeship Council on August 26th. Read the story . . .
Three People Working With a Drywall | Construction Management

Build U Scholarship

Interested in a Career in the Trades But Need Assistance to Make it Happen? 

The Build U Scholarship provides individuals who are seeking to build a career in the trades with tuition support. Learn more and apply today . . .
An Electrician Installing Wiring in a Ceiling

Fall 2024 & Winter 2025 Classes Announced

Enrollment Underway for Core Fundamentals, Electrical, and More

New classes have been announced and enrollment is beginning for Core Fundamentals in Construction, Construction Management certificates, and a bundled program that will enhance your skills and save you money. Learn more and enroll today . . .
Photo of instructors on stage as they were recognized as Teacher of the Year Nominees.

Build Smart Institute Employees Honored

Four Employees Recognized During 5th Annual Housing Excellence Awards

The Home Builders Association of Virginia held its annual conference in June. Members of the Build Smart team were recognized for their leadership engagement, and dedication to the building industry. Read more . . .
A Group in Front of the Build Smart Institute Banner | Construction Industry News

Build Smart Celebrates Class of 2024

Students celebrated for accomplishments in trades courses

Build Smart Institute held a graduation ceremony for its fourth graduating class on June 6, 2024. It was a wonderful event that celebrated the hard work and dedication of individuals who participated in training opportunities during 2024. Read more . . .
People Listening to a Man Talk | Ferrum Construction

Build Smart Institute & Ferrum College Partnership

Partnerships Makes Construction Trade Education More Accessible

Discover how this new partnership will change skills training and the construction industry for years to come. Read more . . .
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