In celebration of their upcoming 10th anniversary, local non-profit convenes unique network of construction leaders working collaboratively to empower regional youth development programs

NEW ORLEANS, Louisiana, April 16, 2024—unCommon Construction, a local non-profit organization that uses the construction build process to empower youth with the skills, networks, resources, and experiences to lead the workforce after high school or college, launched its first cohort of the Greater New Orleans Industry Circle (GNOIC) this spring. Seventeen construction companies serving the region joined as founding members to support the organization’s mission and deepen their engagement with the 100 high school apprentices who participate in the program each year.

“We’re excited to have so many leaders in the Greater New Orleans construction industry make this commitment to serve our youth through this unique opportunity for collective action,” said unCommon Construction Executive Director Aaron Frumin. “This new industry circle will increase unCommon’s impact on the leadership development of our apprentices and alumni who represent the next generation of skilled leaders in our community.”

unCommon Construction partners with public schools, homeschools, and youth-serving organizations to provide training in soft and technical skills for youth ages 16-20 through its apprenticeship program. Apprentices earn above-minimum-wage hourly pay, school credit, and scholarships for building a house or other project over the course of a school year. The experience provides them with exposure to a lucrative career in the trades and opportunities to develop their leadership potential.

“Since 2015, unCommon Construction has developed 400 apprentices who have earned over $400,000 in pay and scholarships from their work in the program,” said Michael DeGruy, GNOIC co-chair and President of Ryan Gootee General Contractors. “As members of the GNOIC, we’re honored to help the organization grow their impact over the next ten years.”

Members will convene multiple times throughout the year to discuss how to support and develop a younger and more diverse workforce for the construction industry.

“There’s a huge shortage of workers in the construction industry nationally,” said Sarah Busch, GNOIC co-chair and Vice President of Operations for Landis Construction. “unCommon’s GNO Industry Circle will help the local construction community continue to grow our workforce and empower the next generation of leaders for our industry.”

Members will also have first access to engage directly with apprentices and alumni through volunteer build days, field trips, hiring fairs, mentorship opportunities, and “lunch & learns.”

“The Palmisano Foundation and RNGD are committed to fostering professional growth for the next generation of builders,” said Wes Palmisano, CEO of RNGD and President of the Palmisano Foundation. “unCommon Construction has provided a unique opportunity for our team to mentor and engage with apprentices through hands-on training, creating a fun learning experience for both the RNGD team and unCommon apprentices.”

In this inaugural year, members are looking toward the long-term impact their support can provide in creating more robust local workforce development opportunities and a stronger regional economy.

“At LEMOINE, we recognize the profound impact of Uncommon Construction's mission on the youth of greater New Orleans,” said William Lemoine, President of Building Construction for LEMOINE. “We firmly believe that investing in the development of our youth through organizations like Uncommon not only enhances individual opportunities but also contributes to the long-term prosperity and resilience of our community.”

Along with co-chairs Sarah Busch and Michael DeGruy, the GNOIC is co-chaired by Andre Kelly of the Louisiana Associated General Contractors (LAGC) and Jeb Bruneau of the Associated Builders and Contractors - New Orleans/Bayou Chapter (ABC - NO/BC), two national trade associations that provide support to the construction industry.

Pictures right to left: Sarah Busch (Landis Construction), Aaron Frumin (unCommon Construction), Jeb Bruneau (ABC), Andre Kelly (AGC), and Michael DeGruy (Ryan Gootee General Contractors)

“The work of Aaron and unCommon Construction is easily one AGC’s proudest efforts we support. It makes sense for the industry and will greatly benefit our members both now and in the future. Having been a part of UnCommon’s growth from infancy, we at AGC are confident of the impact this organization will have on the youth of New Orleans and count ourselves lucky to stand with these students and this grand character-framing organization.” - Andre Kelly, LAGC’s Vice President of Member Projects and Southeast Area Manager for Southeast Louisiana
“The partnership between ABC New Orleans/Bayou and Uncommon Construction is a powerful example of collaboration for a stronger community. By working together, we can provide vital opportunities in workforce development and ensure a skilled and qualified construction industry talent pool. This focus on building up the local workforce will not only benefit the businesses involved but also create a ripple effect of positive economic and social development throughout Greater New Orleans and Bayou areas.” - Jeb Bruneau, ABC-NO/BC’s President and CEO

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