Few people have been as instrumental in shaping the YBA Workforce NOW® Foundation as Laurie Lourie, Executive Vice President of the York Builders Association. A longtime advocate for the industry, Laurie was part of the leadership team that launched the Workforce NOW initiative in 2017, and she remains deeply involved today.
The Beginning of the Movement:
“As the EVP of the York Builders Association at the time, my staff and I recognized growing concerns across the state and country about the lack of skilled tradespeople. It was a hot topic and a significant concern within our industry,” Laurie explains.
With that, the YBA launched the Workforce NOW branded program, and in 2022, officially established the YBA Workforce NOW Foundation as a registered 501(c)(3) to expand its reach and impact.
What She’s Most Passionate About:
Laurie is especially enthusiastic about the student pre-apprenticeship program.
“It introduces the younger generation to a broad range of careers in the building trades. It gives them the opportunity to explore and determine which field they are interested in pursuing as a career.”
Proudest Achievement:
“I’m proud of the Foundation as a whole. We are one of the few builders associations to establish our own foundation to address the rising concerns around the shortage of skilled tradespeople,” Laurie says.
“And it’s growing rapidly; we now even include a program for adults.”
Why the Skilled Trades Matter:
Laurie believes the trades offer young adults a practical, meaningful path to success.
“It is important for young adults to consider the trades to avoid going into debt by attending college. With the shortage of tradespeople in the building industry, they have the opportunity to make a substantial income while gaining confidence and pride through learning valuable skills.”
Why She Supports the Foundation:
“Supporting the YBA Workforce NOW Foundation is important to me because, after being involved in the builders association for over 30 years, I am passionate about the industry. The Foundation meets the needs of families and our community, helping to build a strong future workforce.”
We’re grateful to Laurie Lourie for her vision, leadership, and continued support of the YBA Workforce NOW Foundation. Her dedication has helped lay the groundwork for a thriving program that continues to open doors for students, adults, and our local industry.
