How Construction Education Builds Arizona’s Future Workforce
Why Education is the Foundation of Construction
Arizona’s commercial construction industry is growing fast. New hospitals, office towers, schools, and industrial facilities rise every year, powered by the state’s expanding population and economy. But behind every project is the workforce, and that workforce needs more than tools and materials to succeed. It needs training, leadership, and ongoing professional development.
Builders Alliance (ABA) comes in. Education is one of our three core pillars (alongside advocacy and impact), and for good reason. From apprentices just starting their careers to executives guiding multi-million-dollar projects, ABA’s programs give Arizona construction professionals the skills, confidence, and connections they need to lead.
Apprenticeship: Building Careers and Meeting Industry Demand
The skilled labor shortage is one of the most pressing challenges in Arizona construction. Contractors across the state need electricians, project managers, and site supervisors to keep projects moving. ABA’s Electrical Apprenticeship Program offers a direct solution.
- Earn While You Learn. Apprentices work full-time, receive wage increases as they progress, and graduate debt-free.
- High Standards. The program is U.S. Department of Labor-registered and backed by the ABA Education Trust Fund.
- Proven Impact. Apprentices log over 8,000 on-the-job hours and 256 classroom hours—emerging as highly qualified, journey-level electricians.
Career Development Programs: Training for Every Stage
Not everyone follows the same path into construction. Some start in the field; others enter from the office. ABA’s career development programs are designed to meet professionals where they are and give them the tools to advance.
Construction Basics Program
Perfect for newcomers, this course covers essential concepts, equipping participants to support project teams effectively.
Supervisory Training Program (STP)
A six-unit, AGC-certified program that strengthens communication, planning, and leadership for jobsite supervisors.
Project Manager Development Program (PMDP)
A five-module track that builds project leadership, cost control, and scheduling expertise for early-career professionals.
Each program is hands-on, practical, and designed for immediate application in the workplace. Participants leave with skills that translate directly into improved project outcomes.
Leadership Development: Growing Arizona’s Industry Leaders
The future of construction depends on more than technical skills. Strong leaders guide teams, inspire innovation, and create resilient companies. ABA’s leadership programs are nationally recognized for shaping the next generation of industry decision-makers.
Leadership Development Forum (LDF)
- A year-long intensive focused on management, leadership, and public speaking.
- Alumni network includes 800+ graduates since 1993.
- Participants grow into confident, strategic leaders prepared to take on greater responsibility.
Emerging Leaders Forum (ELFF)
- Six-month, cohort-based format.
- Builds communication, management, and business acumen for rising professionals.
Senior Executive Program (SEP)
- Tailored for executives navigating today’s complex market.
- Combines strategic leadership training with peer collaboration at the highest level. rising professionals.
Women In Leadership Program
- Designed for mid-to-senior-level women leaders.
- Emphasizes leadership effectiveness, strategic thinking, and well-being within a supportive peer network.
These programs do more than sharpen skills; they shape careers and, ultimately, the direction of Arizona’s construction industry.
Specialized Technical Training
Construction evolves quickly, and staying competitive requires constant learning. ABA offers technical education that helps companies adopt best practices and innovative methods.
Building Information Modeling (BIM) Education Program
- Prepares participants to earn the CM-BIM credential.
- Teaches model-based coordination, cost estimating, and scheduling integration.
- Helps contractors win bids and deliver projects with fewer clashes and greater efficiency.
Lean Construction Education Program
- Focuses on minimizing waste and maximizing value.
- Equips teams to streamline processes and deliver greater ROI.
From seminars on legal updates and project finance to webinars on emerging trends, ABA delivers education that keeps members ahead of the curve.
The Ripple Effect: How ABA Education Impacts Arizona
Investing in education isn’t just good for individuals or companies; it strengthens the entire state’s construction ecosystem.
- Stronger Workforce Pipeline. Programs like the Apprenticeship initiative ensure Arizona has a steady supply of skilled professionals.
- Safer Jobsites. Training reduces risk, improves compliance, and creates a culture of safety.
- Leadership Bench Strength. With hundreds of graduates from LDF and ELF, Arizona has a deep pool of future leaders ready to step up.
- Business Competitiveness. Companies with trained employees bid more effectively, manage projects more efficiently, and achieve higher client satisfaction.
- Community Impact. Scholarships, mentorship, and training opportunities give individuals long-term career paths, elevating entire communities.
Why ABA? A Member-Driven Approach
Education at ABA isn’t “off the shelf.” Programs are designed in response to what members ask for. Contractors, subcontractors, and industry leaders shape the curriculum, ensuring it reflects real-world needs.
With 380+ member companies, 20+ monthly workshops, and a 90% retention rate, ABA’s track record speaks for itself. Our members invest in education because they see results on the jobsite, in the office, and across Arizona.
How to Get Involved
If you’re ready to take the next step in your career or strengthen your company’s workforce, here’s how to get started:
- Explore ABA’s full Education Programs.
- Learn about the Apprenticeship Program if you’re seeking a hands-on, debt-free career pathway.
- Enroll in leadership programs like the Leadership Development Forum or Women in Leadership to accelerate growth.
- Attend workshops to stay current on industry topics.
- Become an ABA member to gain access to exclusive resources, events, and networking opportunities.
Education Builds the Future
Arizona’s construction industry doesn’t move forward on materials alone; it advances because of the people who lead it. Education is how ABA equips those people to succeed, whether they’re apprentices starting out or executives shaping industry strategy.
By investing in your team’s growth through ABA programs, you’re not just building stronger companies; you’re building Arizona’s future.