June 2006
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STUDENTS LEARN TRADE SKILLS TO FILL GROWING DEMAND FOR BUILDING INDUSTRY JOBS
Between 2002 and 2012, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the U.S. will need about 1 million skilled workers to fill construction jobs, and more jobs will continue to open up as the Baby Boom generation retires. Contrary to what may be a less than sparkling opinion about careers in the building trades, construction industry jobs typically pay very well; are in huge demand; require a high precise skill level; and offer a stable future for workers. With housing demand remaining strong, jobs in the trades are not only a precious commodity, but they can also provide a rewarding and lucrative career. For example, a first year plumber can earn up to $15.00 an hour and senior construction managers average around $121,500 a year annually. Further, many careers in the building trades are entrepreneurial, offering business ownership opportunities and greater control over work schedules and hours. In response to the growing demand for industry jobs, the Home Builders Institute (HBI), the workforce development arm of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), has developed a modern, accessible teaching system for the primary residential construction trades. Published in collaboration with Thomson Delmar Learning, the Residential Construction Academy (RCA) Series currently covers five construction trade subjects: Carpentry, Electrical Principles, House Wiring, HVAC and Plumbing. A modular Facilities Maintenance reference will debut in 2006, and a Concrete/Masonry text is a newly planned addition. More information can be found on the Home Builders Institute�s web site, https://hbi.org
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PROTECT YOUR HOME FROM WIND DAMAGE
Improve Your Roofing�s Performance Your roof, and the deck beneath it, forms one of your home�s most critical shields to wind and rain. Unfortunately, during high wind storms, it is often the first to be damaged. Loss of roof covering such as shingles, tiles or metal panes can make your home more susceptible to water damage. Loose roofing becomes wind-borne projectiles that can cause further damage to other structures. Luckily, roofing products with high wind resistance are available and a variety of installation techniques can be used on both new and existing homes to help protect against wind damage. Roofing underlayments, high performance shingles, even effective attic ventilation can all increase wind resistance. To withstand high winds, it is critical that all shingles are properly installed according to the manufacturer�s instructions. Recently enacted high-wind performance standards for asphalt shingles have raised wind performance. �These wind standards are important to protect homes everywhere from high-wind situations like storms and winter weather,� said Russell Snyder, executive vice president of the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) in Washington D.C. Make Manufactured Homes Wind-Resistant Non-permanent foundations can make these homes more vulnerable to wind damage, however, so extra precautions during windy seasons is necessary. �Most importantly, make sure your home is installed according to the manufacturer�s instructions,� said Bruce Savage, vice president of public affairs for the Manufactured Housing Institute in Arlington, VA. �It is imperative to properly anchor down your home, and in the case of severe high winds, follow official evacuation orders.�
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