As a Builders and Remodelers Association of Greater Boston (BRAGB) Workforce Development Sponsor and Sustaining Builder Member, full-service real estate and property management firm Peabody Properties co-sponsored the recent BRAGB panel discussion, which focused on “Labor Shortage Solutions – The Next Generation,” and featured Massachusetts Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Rosalin Acosta.  The event was held on April 17 at the Hilton Woburn in Woburn, Mass., and is in support of their Sustaining Builder program, newly launched by BRAGB this year.

Throughout the discussion, panelists focused on the need to collaborate to develop the next generation of home builders through trades development, mentoring, and training as the industry is lacking the skilled workers needed for growth and sustainability.

In 2018, with additional financial assistance of the Home Builders Institute, BRAGB helped to launch a carpentry program at Milford High School.  Seventeen students are currently enrolled in the program; 15 are graduating this June and entering the workforce (four of them already have job offers).  This year BRAGB is working on plans to finalize a similar program with Framingham High School for the 2019/2020 school year, and the organization is in discussions with other schools for future partnerships.

Peabody Properties has been a member of BRAGB for many years.  Scott Ployer, Vice President of Facilities and Capital Planning for Peabody Properties, has served on the BRAGB board for the past four years and currently serves as Secretary.  He represented Peabody Properties at the panel discussion.

“Everyone in our industry is facing a shortage of skilled workers,” said Ployer.  “By coming together to discuss possible solutions to these issues, everyone benefits.  We are proud to support the organization’s workforce development initiatives,” he added.