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Unlocking the Potential of Building Trades Education
ABOUT US
The Building Industry Institute, doing business as the Suncoast Apprenticeship Academy, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting ethical and sustainable building practices through education, outreach, and hands-on skilled trades training for students ages 18 and older.
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Focused on outreach, education, research, and technical assistance, our mission is to deliver high-quality instruction, mentorship, and practical experience that connects students with the skills and certifications needed to build successful careers in the construction industry.
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Driven by local labor market needs, the Academy prepares the next generation of confident, capable trade professionals ready to meet the demands of a growing workforce and strengthen our communities.
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Career Paths
Years of Experience
Industry Partners
Certifications Offered
STATEMENT OF NEED
ADDRESSING MANATEE & SARASOTA COUNTY'S WORKFORCE SHORTAGE
The Suncoast Apprenticeship Academy was established to address a growing and urgent need—a shortage of skilled, licensed trade professionals in the Manatee and Sarasota County region. As our communities continue to recover from severe storm damage and experience record-breaking population growth, the demand for qualified tradespeople has never been greater.
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REBUILDING WITH RESILIENCE
Southern Sarasota County—particularly North Port—was among the hardest hit by recent hurricanes and storms. In these times of crisis, the lack of licensed, insured contractors has opened the door for unlicensed and unqualified labor, leaving vulnerable homeowners at risk. Training a local, certified workforce ensures our communities can rebuild safely, ethically, and sustainably—now and in the future.
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CREATING ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY
The Suncoast Apprenticeship Academy provides a pathway to stable, high-demand careers for low-to-moderate income (LMI) individuals. By removing financial barriers such as tuition, materials, and tool costs, the Academy creates access to education and empowers local residents to fill essential roles in construction, electrical, and mechanical trades.
OUR PARTNERS
Suncoast Builders Association
Through our direct connection to the Suncoast Builders Association, SAA is supported by trusted local builders, contractors, and trade professionals whose hands-on experience keeps our training programs relevant and effective. Their real-world insight helps shape learning that truly prepares students for the field.
Together, we’re building a strong pipeline of skilled, job-ready professionals ready to shape the future of the Suncoast.
Home Builders Institute (HBI)
Modeled after the nationally recognized Home Builders Institute (HBI), founded in 1974, SAA benefits from a direct partnership that provides decades of proven expertise in trades education and workforce development.
This collaboration ensures alignment with HBI’s nationally validated curriculum, performance standards, and industry-driven training methods that prepare students for success.
Future Builders of America (FBA)
A program of the HBI, Future Builders of America introduces construction career opportunities to students and young adults up to age 25.
Through this partnership, SAA strengthens the pipeline from school to skilled careers, connecting students with mentorship, leadership development, and real-world experience in Florida’s construction industry.
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Lloyd Willliams Scholarship Fund
The Lloyd Williams Scholarship, established by the Suncoast Builders Association and managed by the Manatee Community Foundation, supports the Suncoast Apprenticeship Academy by helping provide students with hands-on training, quality education, and clear pathways to meaningful careers. This continued support strengthens our local workforce and the construction industry as a whole.
CONTACT US
General Inquiries
If you have any questions, please fill out the form below or call us at 941-407-4133.
Contact Us
Head Office
6650 Professional Pkwy West
Ste 102
Sarasota, FL 34210
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Tel: 941-407-4133
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