Improving Lives Through Construction Education
Who We Are
NCCER is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that has improved lives through construction education since 1996. By building accessible pathways to craft professions, we address critical issues including workforce shortages, disaster recovery and socioeconomic gaps.
We are proud to be supported by industry leaders including Lowe’s Company, Lowe’s Foundation, DEWALT, Bechtel, Carhartt and Procore. These changemakers share in our mission to fill the skilled trades gap and uplift communities across the nation.
Under the leadership of Dr. Melissa Perkins, CFRE, NCCER works directly with donors to fund existing programs or collaborate on custom project that support shared goals.
What Guides Us
NCCER equips people to succeed in careers in the construction industry, changes lives, and strengthens communities with outcomes that are meaningful and measurable.
A Critical Need for Skilled Craft Professionals
For 2025, the construction industry needs over 500k skilled tradespeople. NCCER’s Build Your Future and High School Builder Program initiatives help meet that demand by building strong talent pipelines. Build Your Future helps students learn about the construction industry, provides resources for teachers and career counselors, and offers materials to help industry connect with local schools. NCCER’s High School Builder Program expands CTE programs to provide hands-on training and credentials that prepare students for careers in construction after graduation.
Discover how we’re building career paths and industry connections to inspire the next generation of craft professionals.
Communities Recovering from Disasters
Natural disasters are growing in intensity and frequency, leaving extensive damage to infrastructure and local economies. Our Rapid Recovery Construction Academies help individuals in disaster-stricken communities by providing construction training and job-placement resources. Participants help rebuild their communities and gain skills and credentials to rejoin the workforce.
See how we help disaster-impacted individuals rebuild their communities.
Supporting Underserved Communities
Many Americans, especially those in underserved communities, lack access to quality training, career guidance and economic opportunity. Our Community Construction Academies are workforce development initiatives that provide adult learners with construction training and job placement services that allow them to immediately enter the workforce and make a difference for themselves and the industry.
Discover how we’re helping people in underserved communities build sustainable careers in the trades.
Closing the Education-to-Employment Gap
Many learners complete training programs without a clear path to a well-paying job or the knowledge of how to begin their careers. NCCER developed CareerStarter to help new entrants connect with training, employers and job opportunities through an easy-to-use online platform.
See how CareerStarter is bridging the gap between interest and opportunity.
Supporting Our Veterans
Honoring the service of our nation’s veterans, Hard Hat Heroes helps transitioning service members discover the purpose, stability, and opportunity found in construction careers. By translating military training into industry-recognized credentials through partnerships with the Department of Defense and industry leaders, the program empowers veterans to build on their strengths and connect with military-friendly employers eager to welcome them into the workforce.
See how we’re helping veterans turn military training into construction careers.
Why We Do It
Construction isn’t just a job—it’s a life-changing career that builds brighter futures. Every contribution to NCCER helps us fulfill our mission and change lives through construction education. NCCER’s ability to measure and report on outcomes ensures every contribution has a clear and meaningful impact. Learn More
Lives Impacted in 2024
Let's Create Change
Together
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Outcomes That Matter
Transforming Connections in the Industry
CareerStarter connects students, educators and employers to help young people explore construction jobs and career paths.
Industry Partners Invest in Common Cause
Belle High School instructor Bryce Gehlert saw his students light up with excitement after receiving a surprise package.
Rebuilding Lives Through Construction Education
NCCER and Lowe’s celebrate the first graduates of Rapid Recovery Construction Academy, powered by the Lowe’s Foundation.
Take Action
We’re building a strong, safe craft workforce that supports careers and industry growth—and your support makes a direct impact.