CONSTRUCTION INCLUSION WEEK PARTNERS

YouthBuild Boston (YBB)

YouthBuild Boston (YBB) is a workforce development organization founded in 1990 that empowers young people in the Boston area to pursue successful careers in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industries. YBB integrates vocational training, academic education, and life skills mentorship to prepare youth for sustainable careers in the building trades. The organization specifically serves local youth and young adults, including high school students and those who have not completed high school, with a strong focus on promoting diversity and equity within the construction sector. By combining hands-on community service projects with industry credentialing, such as OSHA 10 certification, and direct networking with industry employers and labor unions, YBB bridges the gap between classroom learning and active career placement.

YouthBuild Boston
KEY PROGRAMMING

Stage One

(6 Month Program)

This pathway is designed for young adults who have not completed high school. It combines academic instruction to help participants earn their high school diploma with foundational carpentry training, life skills development, and industry certifications. It also provides transition support for individuals planning their next steps in education or career training.

Stage Two

(10 to 12 Week Program)

An intensive carpentry pre-apprenticeship program tailored for high school graduates. This module focuses on teaching advanced carpentry skills, exposing participants to multiple trade disciplines, and providing safety certifications. Students receive job search training and direct placement assistance to help them secure union apprenticeships and industry jobs.

Design Programs

(5 to 7 Week Program)

An after-school and summer architecture and design program geared toward high school students, especially those from under-resourced communities. Participants learn fundamental design skills, explore how architecture can drive social change, and receive professional mentorship to prepare them for collegiate or career opportunities in design-related fields.

YouthBuild Boston is a local affiliate of YouthBuild, a national and global organization dedicated to empowering opportunity youth. Across its network of community-based programs, YouthBuild integrates academic education, leadership development, and hands-on vocational training, equipping young adults with the skills they need to rebuild their communities while launching sustainable careers in high-demand industries.

LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUTHBUILD

“I say with confidence that they helped me build a solid foundation for my future, and I’m filled with gratitude for the amazing journey that I’ve had at YouthBuild.”

- Kass, YouthBuild Boston Student

"YBB understands what it's like growing up in Boston, not having an opportunity like other people, and they work with you. They make you feel heard."

- Yvenson, YouthBuild Boston Student

"In my opinion, YouthBuild Boston is the best first step to learning what you want to do in the future."

- Avren, YouthBuild Boston Student

"I have been involved with the YouthBuild Movement for over thirty years. YouthBuild focuses on young people the traditional systems have failed. They focus on creating REAL pathways out of poverty by giving youth living wage job training and the personal skills to fully participate in the community in proactive positive ways is unique. Having worked in youth development services for 40 years, YouthBuild is the most comprehensive and successful I have experienced throughout my career."

- Melinda Giovengo, YouthBuild Boston Board of Directors Chair