EP20: Solving the Construction Labor Shortage with Skilled Trades Training and Talent Placement with Heather Luhn

In this episode of Home Remodeler Toolbox, host Bob Vance talks with Heather Luhn, Associate Vice President at the Home Builders Institute (HBI), about one of the construction industry’s biggest challenges: workforce development. Heather breaks down how HBI, the nonprofit workforce training arm of the NAHB, prepares individuals for careers in the trades through programs like Job Corps, military transition training, free HBI Academies in major metros, school curriculum licensing, and hands-on training inside correctional facilities to support second chances.Heather also shares powerful leadership insights on building trust with employees, developing teams around their strengths, and why business owners must invest more intentionally in their people. The conversation wraps with a moving story of an HBI graduate who returned years later as a journeyman electrician to inspire others to choose a different path, reminding builders why workforce investment, leadership, and opportunity matter now more than ever.This episode is a must-listen for remodelers, builders, and business owners who care about leadership, workforce solutions, and building a stronger future for the trades.