PHILLIPS Building Futures is a premier CTE Career Pathway - Building Trades program designed to empower students with the skills, certifications, and experience needed for rewarding careers in construction and related fields. Offered at our Annandale and Loudoun campuses, this program blends academic rigor with hands-on training to prepare students for success in high-demand industries.

What Makes Building Futures Exceptional?

Balanced Learning Environment

Our program gives students the best of both worlds:

• Academic Success: Half the day is spent in the classroom, where students work toward earning a Standard High School Diploma or an Applied Studies Diploma, with individualized support and small class sizes.

• Vocational Excellence: The other half of the day is dedicated to immersive training in the building trades, including:

  • Construction Design

  • Carpentry

  • Plumbing

  • Landscaping

Through this dynamic approach, students gain both the knowledge and the practical skills necessary for lifelong success.

Real-World Training Opportunities

Students put their skills to the test through hands-on projects, including:

• Residential home repairs and full renovation projects.

• Landscape design and installation projects.

• Team-based work that mirrors professional job sites.

This experience ensures students graduate ready to tackle real-world challenges in the construction industry.

Certifications That Open Doors

Earning industry-recognized certifications is a cornerstone of Building Futures, setting students apart in the job market:

• OSHA 10-Hour and 30-Hour Certifications: This essential credential equips students with critical workplace safety knowledge, including hazard identification, fall protection, and proper use of tools and equipment.

• Specialized Trade Certifications: Students can earn additional certifications in fields like carpentry, plumbing, and construction design, further enhancing their employability.

Comprehensive Support for Every Student

Building Futures goes beyond technical training to provide holistic support:

• Positive Behavioral Supports: Our program emphasizes teamwork, communication, and resilience, helping students build the soft skills necessary for success.

• Social and Professional Skills: Students learn foundational work habits such as punctuality, collaboration, and professionalism.

• Individualized Attention: A small student-to-staff ratio ensures personalized guidance and mentorship.

Specialized Opportunities in Agriculture and Design

The Building Futures program also offers students the chance to explore specialized tracks, including:

• Landscape Design and Installation: Students learn to design and execute outdoor projects, combining creativity with practical skills.

• Agri-Enterprise Pathways: Through growing fresh produce and flowers, students gain hands-on experience in urban agriculture while learning about entrepreneurship and sustainability.

Why Choose Building Futures?

• Hands-On Experience: Students gain invaluable real-world training through active participation in construction and agricultural projects.

• Career Readiness: With industry certifications and a focus on professional skills, students are well-prepared for the workforce.

• Supportive Environment: Our program emphasizes a strengths-based approach, ensuring every student has the tools and confidence to succeed.

Where Futures Are Built

At PHILLIPS Building Futures, we don’t just teach students the skills to succeed—we help them shape their future. By combining academic instruction, hands-on training, and industry certifications, we empower students to achieve their goals and thrive in high-demand industries.

Join us at Building Futures, where every student has the opportunity to build their career, their confidence, and their dreams.