The Northeast Florida Builders Association (NEFBA) has provided an update on the progress of its new Workforce Development Center, a facility that will serve as the future home of the organization’s programs and industry training initiatives.
During a recent press conference, NEFBA leadership shared updated floor plans and construction progress photos for the new facility, which is scheduled to open in 2026. Construction is progressing steadily, with interior walls complete and flooring installation currently underway. Once finished, the 43,000-square-foot facility will feature 11 classrooms, four hands-on training labs, a 300-person auditorium, and dedicated office and meeting spaces designed to support education, collaboration, and growth within the construction industry.
While the Workforce Development Center will support all of NEFBA’s councils and programs, the organization’s apprenticeship program is expected to benefit most significantly from the expanded space.
Established in 1973, the program is a four-year registered apprenticeship that includes classroom instruction and allows participants to earn a paid wage while completing on-the-job training through NEFBA’s network of more than 200 participating employers. Apprentices graduate debt-free and earn industry certifications along with 27 hours of college credit toward an associate of science degree in industrial management at Florida State College at Jacksonville.
More than 500 apprentices are expected to participate in the program in 2026.
NEFBA also announced strong community support for the project, including a $1 million funding commitment from the City of Jacksonville. The organization is continuing its capital campaign and remains $2.1 million away from its $7.5 million fundraising goal.
Those interested in making an impact and supporting the skilled professionals who help drive Northeast Florida’s growth are encouraged to go to nefba.com/together-we-build/ or email build@nefba.com to learn more.
