Build Smart Institute hosted the first hands-on summer program designed for high school students interested in exploring careers in construction.
The Concrete Camp was held July 21 through 25, 2025, at Build Smart Institute's training facility at 701 Gainsboro Road NW, Roanoke, VA.
“Concrete is the foundation of all construction—we walk on it, drive on it, and it's in every building we enter,” states Stephanie Hoer, director of operations for Build Smart Institute. “Recognizing its critical role, the Concrete Camp is designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of concrete work and provide them with practical skills and insights into the construction industry. At Build Smart, we are committed to exposing young people to the diverse career pathways in the skilled trades. This is our first camp, and we look forward to creating additional opportunities in the future.”
The no-cost camp was made available through a collaboration with ProCon Inc. Attending students benefitted from a customized experience led by industry experts, including Build Smart instructors. The camp was tailored for high school-aged students in Southwest Virginia who are interested in learning more about the world of concrete and the careers available to them.
