FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 25, 2025
New Residential Construction Academy at SPSCC Aims to Tackle Washington’s Housing Crisis
13-week certification program launches June 30, offering hands-on training and direct pathways into the construction workforce
Olympia, WA — South Puget Sound Community College (SPSCC), in partnership with the Olympia Master Builders (OMB) Foundation, United Way of Thurston County (UWTC), and Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council (PacMtn), is launching a new 13-week Residential Construction Academy to train and certify the next generation of skilled construction professionals.
With Washington state currently short 225,000 housing units, the Residential Construction Academy responds directly to a critical labor shortage in the homebuilding industry. The program launches June 30, 2025, with an orientation on May 29th.
“We need to build a future-ready workforce,” said Angela White, Executive Director of the Olympia Master Builders. “This program creates a powerful entry point for those interested to earn a certification and step directly into family-wage careers.”
The Academy is the result of a United Way led taskforce who identified workforce development as one of the region’s top challenges. With guidance and support from industry experts and local workforce leaders, students will gain practical, hands-on experience in residential construction, preparing them to enter the trades immediately upon graduation.
Fast Facts:
- Program Length: 13 weeks
- Start Date: June 30, 2025
- Orientation: May 29, 2025 (required to enroll)
- Who Can Apply: Individuals aged 18+ interested in construction careers
- Scholarships: Available for those seeking to enter the workforce immediately after certification
Building Futures Through Partnership
This SPSCC-branded program is powered by a collaborative effort among education, industry, nonprofit, and workforce development leaders. The Academy not only reflects the needs of the construction industry but also supports broader efforts to provide equitable access to high-demand careers.
“We’re proud to stand with SPSCC, OMB, and PacMtn to provide real solutions for young adults and job seekers,” said Chris Wells, Executive Director of United Way of Thurston County. “This program is more than a certification—it’s a pathway to opportunity.”
How to Register
Students must first attend an orientation session on May 29th. Registration and program details are available through SPSCC (spscc.edu/corporate-continuing-education/residential-construction). Outreach is already underway to local school districts and Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs.