Blue Ridge Offers Free Construction Training Sessions This Summer

Three new sessions of the Level Up: Core Construction program will provide flexible options for individuals seeking careers in the construction industry.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:55pm

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a construction hard hat repeated in a tight grid pattern, conceptually representing the diverse career opportunities available through Blue Ridge's construction training program.Blue Ridge Community College's free construction training program aims to equip students with the skills and tools needed to build a stable, high-paying career in the industry.Blue Ridge Today

Blue Ridge Community College is offering three new, free sessions of its Level Up: Core Construction program this summer, providing flexible training options for individuals looking to enter or advance in the construction field. The short-term program is designed to equip students with foundational skills needed for careers in the construction industry, including hands-on experience and industry-relevant knowledge.

Why it matters

The Level Up: Core Construction program is part of Blue Ridge's ongoing effort to meet regional workforce demands by preparing students for high-demand, high-skill careers in the construction industry. The program aims to increase accessibility for individuals balancing work and other commitments by offering multiple scheduling options.

The details

The new sessions will begin on May 19, June 8, and June 9, with courses scheduled on different days of the week, including an evening option to accommodate working adults. Participants will gain hands-on experience and industry-relevant knowledge that can lead to employment opportunities or further training in specialized trades. Upon completion, students also receive a professional-grade toolkit to support their transition directly onto the job site.

  • The new sessions will begin on May 19, June 8, and June 9.
  • Launched in the months following Hurricane Helene, the Level Up: Core Construction program has been running since 2025.

The players

Blue Ridge Community College

A community college located in Blue Ridge, Virginia that offers the Level Up: Core Construction program.

National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER)

An organization that provided grants to support the Level Up: Core Construction program.

Lowe's Foundation

A foundation that provided grants to support the Level Up: Core Construction program.

Jason Baxley

Blue Ridge's skilled trade and advanced manufacturing instructor who oversees the Level Up: Core Construction program.

Andrew Lunceford

A recent Level Up: Core Construction graduate who is featured in the program's promotional materials.

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What they’re saying

“This program is built to give you real, job-ready skills. You'll learn the core fundamentals of construction and skilled trades, including safety, tool use, construction math, blueprint reading, and hands-on techniques across multiple trades like electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and carpentry.”

— Jason Baxley, Blue Ridge's skilled trade and advanced manufacturing instructor

“For many, it's the difference between working a job and building a future. Graduates leave with skills they can take directly into the workforce, opportunities to connect with employers, and the foundation to grow into higher-paying, specialized roles. If you're serious about learning something that translates into real income and long-term stability, this is where that starts.”

— Jason Baxley, Blue Ridge's skilled trade and advanced manufacturing instructor

What’s next

Registration is now open for all upcoming sessions. For more information or to register, applicants may visit www.blueridge.edu/level-up. Applicants are instructed to choose 'Apply Scholarship' during the online registration process to ensure the course fee is waived.

The takeaway

The Level Up: Core Construction program at Blue Ridge Community College provides a valuable opportunity for individuals to gain the skills and training needed to launch or advance their careers in the high-demand construction industry, with the added benefit of flexible scheduling options and no-cost tuition.