The Northeast Florida Builders Association (NEFBA) celebrated the graduation of 63 apprentices from its nationally recognized apprenticeship program on Tuesday, May 6, at the University of North Florida. This milestone event marked another successful year of developing highly trained, workforce-ready professionals across the construction trades.
The program offers four-year training tracks in electrical, plumbing, HVAC and carpentry. Through a combination of classroom instruction and paid on-the-job training, participants graduate with the skills and certifications necessary to launch long-term careers in the construction industry.
Christina Thomas, NEFBA’s director of workforce education, commended the graduates’ journey and achievements.
“It’s been inspiring to watch these individuals grow from trainees to skilled-trades professionals,” she said. “Their work ethic and commitment embody the values NEFBA is proud to foster and grow.”
In support of its continued growth, NEFBA recently announced the acquisition of a 43,000-square-foot facility at 4932 Sunbeam Road, which will become the future home of the NEFBA Workforce Education Center. This state-of-the-art campus will feature classrooms, hands-on training labs and a 300-person auditorium, offering expanded opportunities for apprentices and elevating workforce development across Northeast Florida.
The building will play a pivotal role in NEFBA’s “Together We Build” campaign, a fundraising initiative to support renovations and help train the next generation of construction professionals.
For more information on how to participate and contribute, email build@nefba.com.
The program, which began in 1973, continues to grow in partnership with local employers, schools and community leaders, helping to fill the demand for a skilled workforce in Northeast Florida. NEFBA is committed to bridging the skilled-labor gap while empowering individuals with rewarding, high-demand career paths.
