WASHINGTON – The Home Builders Institute (HBI), a national nonprofit dedicated to training and placing individuals in skilled trades careers, announced on September 24, 2026, that it has received a grant from Google.org. This funding is earmarked to significantly expand skilled trades training programs for transitioning military service members, veterans, military spouses, and their family members.
Target Beneficiaries and Program Expansion
The Google.org grant will enable HBI to enhance its existing military services program by adding training cohorts at current SkillBridge sites, expanding overall training capacity, and strengthening job placement support. The initiative aims to provide critical career pathways for those who have served, as well as their families, helping them transition into civilian life with valuable skills.
Ed Brady, President and CEO of the Home Builders Institute, emphasized the importance of this investment, stating that it will "change the lives of more transitioning military, military spouses, veterans, and their family members because the people who served this country deserve a second career as strong as their first." Brady highlighted that service members already possess the discipline, leadership, and ability to accomplish difficult tasks, which are well-suited for a career in the trades that offers "real pay and a future they build with their own hands."
HBI's Military Services Program: Training and Support
HBI's Military Services program currently offers tuition-free, 12-week pre-apprenticeship training through the Department of Defense SkillBridge program. This training is conducted at 10 sites located on or near military installations, including Camp Pendleton, Fort Bragg, and Fort Hood. Participants in the program learn essential skills in areas such as carpentry and electrical work, earning industry-recognized certifications upon completion. The program also provides crucial job placement support to help graduates secure employment in the skilled trades.
Part of Google's Broader Commitment to Veterans
The grant to HBI is a component of a larger commitment by Google to support the skilled trades and veterans. Google announced these grants as part of its ongoing initiative to help 25,000 veterans and military family members build careers in skilled trades. HBI is one of three organizations receiving funding and support from Google.org for this effort, alongside Hiring Our Heroes and Student Veterans of America (SVA).
Shanika Hope, Director of Google.org, underscored the significance of this partnership, noting that "the skilled trades are a critical backbone of the American economy, and addressing the shortage will take sustained partnership, not one-off programs." She added that Google is proud to support organizations like HBI as they expand training, credentials, and career pathways, thereby supporting veterans and military families while contributing to the nation's building efforts.
