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🎯 Main Topics Covered

🛠️ South Alabama Homebuilding Academy (SAHA) Overview

  • Inspired by: The successful model of the North Alabama Homebuilding Academy in Huntsville.
    • That program has graduated 600+ students in 5.5 years with over a 90% retention rate.
  • Target Audience: Adults (17+), including many mid-career individuals (average age ~30 in Huntsville).
  • Mission: Address the labor shortage in skilled trades like roofing, carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
  • Training Approach:
    • Night classes twice a week (Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5:30–8:30 PM).
    • Real-world, hands-on training using power tools and basic trade skills.
    • No cost to students: tuition-free with job placement assistance and tools provided upon job offer.
👷‍♂️ Student Experience & Benefits

  • Designed for serious career changers, not hobbyists.
  • Curriculum built to ensure students are job-ready — not experts, but not clueless either.
  • First graduating class starts January 8, 2026, with new classes launching every 10 weeks.
  • Future expansion plans: Potential for daytime/accelerated courses due to high demand.
👨‍🏫 Instructors & Community Involvement

  • Instructors are industry professionals (active or recently retired).
  • Many are referred or sponsored by companies in the building trades.
  • The Academy is being supported by local civic leaders, contractors, and companies donating materials and resources.
🏌️ Upcoming Event at Topgolf — Tuesday Before Veterans Day

  • What: Launch celebration and networking event for SAHA.
  • When: Tuesday at 5:30 PM.
  • Where: Topgolf Mobile.
  • Purpose:
    • Thank sponsors and supporters.
    • Introduce the SAHA board and instructors.
    • Invite prospective students and industry professionals to learn more or get involved.
  • Extras: Food, fun, media coverage, potential surprise MC, and guest appearance from Congressman Barry Moore (schedule permitting).
  • Sign-ups Available: On-site at the event or online via GoBuildMobile.org.
💬 Notable Quotes
  • “This is really by contractors, for contractors.” – George Spurlock
  • “We’ve had literally no negative feedback. The response has been emotionally overwhelming.”

  • “It’s not just teaching them a trade — it’s about giving people a second chance at a meaningful career.”

🔚 Wrap-Up

George Spurlock from Presley Roofing emphasized the community-driven, opportunity-rich nature of SAHA. Hosts Dalton and Dan expressed enthusiasm and support, planning to check back in regularly on the program’s progress in 2026.
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504 episodes