2025–2026 Impact Report: Building the Future, One Student at a Time

Every project starts with a strong foundation—and at the Construction Industry Education Foundation (CIEF), that foundation is built by investing in people.
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The 2025–2026 program year was one of our most impactful yet. Thanks to the support of our industry partners, educators, volunteers, sponsors, and donors, thousands of students gained hands-on experience, earned valuable certifications, explored rewarding careers, and connected with professionals shaping the future of the built environment.

Here’s a look at what we accomplished together.

17,349 Students Served

This year, 17,349 students participated in CIEF programs designed to introduce, educate, and inspire the next generation of construction professionals. Whether through classroom experiences, competitions, mentoring, or career exploration events, each student represents another step toward strengthening tomorrow’s workforce.

​33,000+ Hours of Real-World Jobsite Training

Learning by doing remains one of the most effective ways to prepare students for successful careers.
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Through our Design Build Competitions®, students completed more than 33,000 hours of hands-on jobsite training, developing technical skills while learning teamwork, communication, project management, and problem-solving in a real construction environment.

​23,580+ Hours of OSHA 10 Safety Training

Safety is one of the industry’s highest priorities.
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During the 2025–2026 year, CIEF provided more than 23,580 hours of OSHA 10 Safety Training, helping students enter the workforce with nationally recognized safety knowledge and a strong understanding of jobsite best practices.

​10,929+ Future Construction Professionals

The demand for skilled workers continues to grow.
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Based on student participation and career pathway data, more than 10,929 students are expected to pursue careers in the built environment by 2032, helping address workforce shortages while building stronger communities across the country.

Growing Programs, Growing Opportunities

CIEF continued expanding opportunities for students through signature workforce development programs:

• 9 Design Build Competitions®, including the successful launch of new competitions in Las Vegas and Central Texas
• 1 CREATE Mentor Competition
• 14 Trades Days connecting students directly with employers, apprenticeship programs, colleges, and industry professionals

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Each event helps students discover career opportunities they may never have considered while allowing employers to engage with tomorrow’s workforce today.

Building Stronger Industry Connections

Our impact extends well beyond students.
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During the past year, 9,463 adults participated in CIEF events and programs as mentors, educators, volunteers, judges, employers, sponsors, and industry leaders. Their time and expertise are essential to creating meaningful learning experiences and helping students succeed.

​Expanding Our Reach

Interest in construction careers continues to grow online as well.
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The CIEF website welcomed 118,820 unique visitors throughout the year, providing resources for students, educators, parents, and industry professionals seeking information about workforce development opportunities.

Thank You for Building the Future With Us

These numbers represent far more than statistics—they represent lives changed, careers launched, and a stronger future for the construction industry.

None of this would be possible without the generosity of our sponsors, volunteers, educators, employers, regional partners, and supporters who believe in investing in the next generation.
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Together, we’re not simply preparing students for jobs—we’re building the future of the built environment.
Thank you for making an impact.