Education Foundation
The Western North Carolina Construction Education Foundation is a construction education-focused non-profit foundation on a mission to support the next generation of construction professionals through classroom and hands-on education. It is a 501(c)3 and is run independently of the BABRM, with its own Board of Directors, mission, and vision.
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Education Foundation
Western North Carolina Construction Education Foundation
Our all-volunteer board believes that today’s professionals can make a difference in tomorrow’s labor shortage by sparking interest in the field of construction. We take regular action toward this goal, whether by speaking at community colleges or teaching Girl Scouts how to hammer nails and cut wood.
In response to labor shortages in our industry, a goal of the Education Foundation is to support and encourage young people to pursue successful careers in the trades.
The Builders Association of the Blue Ridge Mountains announced the kickoff of the Education Foundation at its 2019 Awards Gala. As a result, we raised $9,570 from our generous members! Thank you to our first donors!
Purchase raffle tickets for a shot at winning a unique ShedQuarters for your backyard. Crafted by A-B Tech Green School Students, your purchase supports their education and training, empowering the next generation of craftspeople.
Buy Your ShedQuarters Tickets HereEducation Foundation Scholarships
Our scholarship program is open to students studying building science, solar, plumbing, HVAC, electrical, architecture, or any other fields related to construction. Beyond simply receiving funds, recipients are invited to events of our sister organization Builders Association of the Blue Ridge Mountains. At these functions, students can meet mentors, business contacts, and future employers – a unique and valuable perk.
We are currently accepting applications.
Applications are due May 20, 2024. Winners will be notified in June.
*Additional Scholarship Awards are available through the North Carolina Home Builders Educational Foundation, Inc. Visit NCHBA.org for eligibility requirements and to apply.
Previous Awards
Here are some examples of scholarships that have been awarded:
2019
In 2019, BABRM awarded six scholarships to students who attended a college or technical school and high school seniors preparing to study a construction related field.
2020
In 2020, the Western North Carolina Construction Education Foundation awarded the Asheville Parks & Recreation Department with a donation of $2,000 for the development of a new program called BuildOut. The program focuses on teaching youth basic building skills such as learning how to select appropriate materials and tools, best safety practices, and completing a project from start to finish that they can take home.
2022
In 2022, the Western North Carolina Construction Education Foundation brought a 12×12, single-room, nano dwelling unit built by the students of AB Tech to LEAF in October. The nano dwelling unit (NDU) was raffled off.
Donate to the Education Foundation
Because it is a 501(c)3, we welcome your donations! Donations to the Western North Carolina Construction Education Foundation are tax-deductible. Funds go towards scholarships, like those listed above. As a result, your donation will support the future builders, tradespeople, and leaders of the home building industry and consequently, enhance the industry as a whole.
We are currently fundraising in support of 2024 scholarships and community partners. If you share our goal of supporting learners and building the construction workforce, please consider making a tax-deductible donation!
Thank you for supporting the Foundation!
Scholarship Criteria Information
To be eligible for scholarship a student must meet the following criteria:
Length of Time
Scholarships will be awarded for one year. Scholarships will not automatically renew, but students may reapply each year.
Scholarship
The AHBA Education Foundation will award multiple scholarships during the 2023 year. The number of scholarships and amount may vary.
Eligibility
Scholarships will be awarded to students in their senior year of high school and/or attending a college or technical school. Both full and part-time students are eligible.
Timetable
The scholarship winners will be notified by an email and invited to attend AHBA event coinciding with time of award to accept scholarship. Deadline to submit for scholarship is May 16, 2023.
Criteria
Scholarships will be awarded based on merit as determined by the AHBA Education Foundation Board of Directors. Scholarships will be awarded to students attending a college, technical school or a senior in high school within North Carolina and studying in a construction related field. Visit our Online Directory for examples of construction related job categories.
Funds
Students must provide BABRM with proof of school acceptance no later than July 30, 2024. After receiving proof of acceptance the EF will send a check directly to the school with the scholarship recipient noted in the memo.
Special instructions from the school regarding scholarship funds should be submitted with proof of acceptance.
Requirements
Only completed submissions will be reviewed and must include:
- Completed scholarship application
- One letter of recommendation (minimum)
Apply for a Scholarship
If you’re interested in the scholarship complete your application here
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