In 2006, Home Builders Institute (HBI) launched Operation Reconstruct, a 12-week course to train unemployed or underemployed New Orleans residents to assist in the city’s rebuilding. The program was funded by a National Emergency Grant (NEG) and a Youth Grant from the Jefferson Parish Workforce Investment Board (WIB).

Operation Reconstruct is a relief program, targeted at the Gulf Coast in resonse to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, designed to provide residents with basic home building skills and employment in the area's construction industry.

When Operation Reconstruct began, it exclusively trained displaced residents/workers. Starting with the program’s second year, training will be available to community residents 18-21 years old. Upon completing the program, students will receive an industry recognized Pre-Apprenticeship Training Certificate (PACT) as well as job placement assistance.

Current Operation Reconstruct Programs

Operation Reconstruct New Orleans

Number of Students (trained annually): 145

Trades Offered:

Contact: Roger Grissom - Project Coordinator

Program Partners: Home Builders Association of Greater New Orleans, The Paxen Group, Inc., Jefferson Parish Workforce Investment Board, Jefferson Parish Public School System

Operation Reconstruct Gulfport

Operation Reconstruct in Gulfport was formed through a partnership with the Home Builders Association of the Mississippi Coast and funding from Freddie Mac and NAHB’s Home Building Industry Disaster Relief Fund (HBIDRF).

Currently Operation Reconstruct Gulfport partners with

Number of Students (trained annually): 45

Trades Offered:

Contact: Eddie Collins - Project Coordinator

Additional Program Partners:

Operation Reconstruct Jackson

Number of Students (trained annually):

Trades Offered:

Contact: Machelle Kyles - Site Manager

Additional Program Partners: