As California faces a growing need for skilled trades workers and affordable housing, the California Homebuilding Foundation (CHF) is helping students find careers in the industry.

Founded in 1978 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and affiliate of the California Building Industry Association, CHF advances the state’s home building industry through education, scholarships and research, while also honoring leaders who have made a lasting impact. Its Hall of Fame annually celebrates individuals who have guided the industry forward.

“The California Homebuilding Foundation is dedicated to shaping the future of the industry,” said CHF Executive Director Jill Herman. “We strive to open doors for students, remove financial barriers and inspire them to pursue meaningful careers in construction.”

To achieve this, CHF creates clear pathways for students and connects them with industry members early in their educational journey. The foundation’s Donald Chaiken Building Industry Technology Academy (BITA) is a four-year high school construction curriculum that provides students with the confidence and entry-level knowledge needed to pursue careers in the home building industry.

The curriculum, available in 67 schools throughout California, reaches about 7,000 students annually and is approved by the University of California and California State University systems to meet college preparatory requirements.

BITA began in 2002 when a local builder co-wrote the original curriculum and got it into its first school. The program grew steadily before CHF took it over in 2012, and then it expanded by about five schools per year. In 2021, local real estate developer and home builder Donald Chaiken provided funding to launch the program in even more schools statewide.

“The industry is eager to give back, promote the future and provide a platform for students to get into the trades,” Herman said.

BITA also supports workforce development through grants that cover program start-up costs, summer internships, OSHA-10 certifications and Work-Ready Grants, which provide students the necessary tools and clothing to enter the workforce. BITA provided $70,000 total in grants in 2024.

CHF’s commitment extends beyond high school programs. Its long-standing college scholarship program provides funding for students pursuing degrees in construction-related fields. In 2024, CHF distributed $202,000 to 64 students across 23 universities. Looking ahead, CHF plans to further connect scholarship recipients with industry members and donors to benefit their futures.

Research is the final cornerstone of CHF’s work. Since 1978, the foundation has awarded more than $3.5 million in grants to study the challenges facing California’s home building sector. These studies inform key leadership decisions in home building and land development, and significantly enhance the work of the industry.

In addition, the foundation’s Hall of Fame annually honors individuals who have strengthened home building in California and opened doors for future builders. It has recognized more than 280 industry members who have made a lasting impact by supporting CHF’s scholarships, research and educational programs.

Through these efforts, CHF continues to build a stronger foundation for California’s future. It creates opportunities for students and professionals alike to flourish in the home building industry.

“Providing awareness of the construction industry to the younger generation is huge,” Herman said. “By empowering tomorrow’s workforce through education, we help cultivate the skills, innovation and adaptability needed for a dynamic and sustainable future.”