Building the Next Generation: Celebrating Education and the Skilled Trades

January 24th marks International Day of Education, a day to recognize the transformative power of learning. At Rufty Homes, we believe education isn’t just about textbooks and classrooms—it’s about hands-on experiences, mentorship, and opening doors to careers that shape our communities. That’s why supporting students, especially those pursuing skilled trades, has long been at the heart of what we do.

Transitioning Students from the Classroom to the Job Site

Our commitment to education is reflected in our work across the Raleigh-Durham community. From building the NC State University Chancellor’s House to serving on NAHB PAC Committees, we’ve partnered with institutions that share our vision of preparing the next generation of leaders and craftsmen.

But education doesn’t stop in the classroom. We support local schools like Wake Tech and Meredith College to give students real-world exposure to the building industry. Through internships, site visits, and mentorship programs, students gain invaluable insight into how the skills they learn in school translate into thriving careers in construction, design, and architecture.

Why Skilled Trades Matter for Home Building

The trades are the backbone of our communities—crafting homes, commercial spaces, and neighborhoods that stand the test of time. Yet, many students aren’t aware of the exciting opportunities available in construction and design careers. By fostering connections between education and hands-on experience, we aim to change that.

Students entering the trades gain not just practical skills, but also the chance to work in high-demand fields that offer competitive wages, career growth, and the satisfaction of seeing their work come to life. At Rufty Homes, we see every project as an opportunity to inspire the next generation of builders, designers, and innovators.

How Students Can Get Involved

For students and young professionals looking to explore the trades, there are many ways to get started:

• Vocational Programs: Schools like Wake Tech and Meredith College offer programs in construction management, design, and technical trades.
• Apprenticeships and Internships: Partner with builders and contractors to gain hands-on experience.
• Industry Events: Attend workshops, open houses, and NAHB events to network and learn from experts.
• Job Shadowing: Spend time on active job sites to see how education translates into craftsmanship and project management.

Investing in the Future of Our Communities

On International Day of Education, we’re proud to celebrate the students, educators, and tradespeople who make our industry—and our community—stronger. By supporting education in all its forms, we help ensure that the next generation is ready to build, design, and innovate for years to come.

At Rufty Homes, we don’t just build homes—we build opportunities.