New academy to offer tuition-free classes to train skilled construction workers

Goodwill Gulf Coast is partnering with the South Alabama Homebuilding Academy (SAHA) to offer tuition-free construction-related trades classes beginning in January 2026. The eight-week Construction Skills Boot Camp is open to anyone 17 years of age or older who wants to jumpstart a career in the construction industry. Students will receive free, hands-on training for in-demand residential construction careers. Classes will be held at Goodwill Gulf Coast’s McMaken building (2448 Gordon Smith Drive) in Mobile and will be offered on Tuesday and Thursday evenings.

“With thousands of jobs currently available, now is the time to explore a future in skilled trades and construction,” Barry Reed, Jr., CEO of Goodwill Gulf Coast, said. “In 2024, Alabama had 106,400 construction-related jobs, which was a 4.6% increase over the prior year. Overall, 6.2% of the state’s workforce is employed in this sector, which is projected to have faster-than-average employment growth through 2026.”

Sixteen different classes will be offered, including five trade-specific classes, two safety classes, and nine basic skills classes. Students will choose one of the five trade-specific classes (Roofing, Plumbing, Carpentry, Electrical, and HVAC). All of the participants will learn to master tools and equipment used on residential construction sites and can earn a six-hour HBAA Safety 6 worksite safety certification. Participants will also have access to Goodwill Gulf Coast’s services including career counseling and job search assistance and, after the end of the program, will attend a Jobs Fair at Goodwill with companies that are looking to hire qualified candidates.

The South Alabama Homebuilding Academy (SAHA) is a nonprofit organization that provides hands-on, short-term training to individuals seeking a career in the residential construction industry. Participants much be 17 years of age or older, be legally allowed to work in the U.S., and must pass a drug screening test.

SAHA is part of Go Build Alabama, a statewide campaign designed to educate young people on the value of learning a trade, dispel their misconceptions about the construction industry, and inspire them to consider a career in the skilled trades. Go Build Alabama connects students and career changers with construction training programs and job opportunities across the state. Through the Go Build Alabama campaign, the Alabama Construction Recruitment Institute aims to provide more highly-skilled tradespeople for construction businesses and enhanced economic development for Alabama and the nation.

For more information or to enroll in Boot Camp classes, go to www.gobuildmobile.org or www.goodwillgulfcoast.org – or contact Goodwill Gulf Coast’s offices at (251) 471-1581.