Success Stories
See what our graduates and instructors have to say about our programs and how the new career opportunities have impacted their lives.
“It’s an opportunity to learn something you could use in the future or in your daily life that no one can take away from you.”
HYSONE H., BY Graduate
About Hysone H.:
Hysone didn’t even have to wait until he finished his BY Construction Training Class for it to help him land a job.
Having updated his resume on Indeed to reflect the credentials and certifications he would have when he finished the class, 41-year-old Hysone was contacted by construction and development firm Mortenson while he was still doing his BY training.
“They showed me how to set up a proper resume that would catch a hiring manager’s eye… Anything you want to know they can teach you, so you have nothing to worry about.”
Dorian W., BY Graduate
About Dorian W.:
At age 25, Dorian W. was a forklift operator in a warehouse, but he didn’t see much of a future there.
“Career-wise, you want to be able to move up,” he said.
Then he spotted a Facebook ad for the BY program.
BY Instructors
Jason Burke brings more than 25 years of experience in construction, project management, and career and technical education. As a Building Trades Instructor at Area 31/Ivy Tech, he teaches NCCER curriculum and guides students through hands-on residential construction projects, including the completion of a student-built home each year. Prior to entering education, Jason worked as a construction foreman, superintendent, and maintenance facilitator, gaining extensive experience in residential construction, project leadership, and skilled trades. His passion for mentoring students and preparing the next generation of construction professionals is evident both in and out of the classroom.
Brian Davidson brings more than 30 years of industrial construction experience to the classroom as a Journeyman Millwright and former Operations Manager. A veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Brian has worked on major industrial projects throughout the Midwest, specializing in machinery installation, precision alignment, project coordination, and field operations. His extensive hands-on experience, leadership background, and commitment to safety provide students with valuable real-world insight into careers in the construction and skilled trades industries.
With more than 35 years of experience in woodworking, manufacturing, construction, and workforce development,Kent brings a unique blend of industry expertise and educational leadership to the classroom. As Lead Instructor for Indiana Construction Roundtable Foundation’s BY Plus and BY Bootcamp programs, he oversees curriculum development, NCCER instruction, and OSHA training while preparing students for successful careers in the skilled trades. Throughout his career, he has owned and operated a nationally recognized architectural woodworking company, led workforce development initiatives, and served in leadership roles with industry organizations including SkillsUSA, the Architectural Woodwork Institute, and the Woodwork Career Alliance.
His passion for mentoring and developing the next generation of skilled professionals continues to drive his work today.
When Rob Nance began work as a plumber in 1997, he couldn’t have imagined he’d one day be leading others to careers in construction.
Back then, he was focused on growing his family and his business. And even though he enjoyed working alongside his sons at his plumbing company, he steered them toward college and careers outside of the trades.
“I liked that the work I did was hands-on and the impact was permanent,” Rob says. “I can still walk through buildings where I helped put in the plumbing, and there isn’t another feeling like that pride.” But then he adds, “I also knew there were better-paying jobs out there.”
Nonetheless, one son, Matthew, not only went into the construction industry but ended up as executive director of the BY Program. And Matthew knew exactly where to turn when he needed a BY Training course instructor: to the man who taught him.
Rob eagerly seized the opportunity to help others enjoy the accomplishment he got from his work. “There’s something about that self-satisfaction of completing a construction job that I wanted to share with other people,” he says. “BY Training seemed like a great place to start.”
Now Rob is excited every day he gets to work with students in a BY course. “This is a program designed to help people get a second chance at their life and to pursue a real career.” he says. “All you need is to have a good character, be a good person, and this program will help you learn how to support your family with good work.”
Rob is constantly amazed by the ways the BY Program makes construction work engaging for its students. “It’s not just about the class time,” he says. “BY graduates also receive long-term networking and job fairs from BY Training. And through our connections, these aren’t minimum-wage careers!”
At the same time, Rob sees his work as going well beyond teaching building trades; he also helps students build lives. “Construction involves skills we do every day, including math and measuring and putting pieces together.” He says. “When I sit down with each of my students, I get to make that truth relatable to their experience. And that’s how they are set up for success.”
Geneva Ross brings a diverse background in construction, healthcare leadership, education, and research to her role as an instructor. As the owner and operator of a home renovation business, she has extensive hands-on experience in carpentry, flooring, tile, plumbing, electrical work, and project management. Prior to entering the construction industry, Geneva spent more than a decade in healthcare administration and social services, where she developed a passion for mentoring, education, and helping individuals achieve their goals. Combined with her NCCER certification and commitment to workforce development, she provides students with practical skills, strong leadership, and a supportive learning environment.
Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to developing engaging curriculum materials and delivering effective training to a diverse range of learners. Her practical approach to teaching ensures that students gain the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in their careers while maintaining a focus on safety protocols and industry standards. Her experience in the construction sector, combined with her instructional expertise, supports her ability to deliver comprehensive training sessions that meet the evolving needs of the industry.
With more than 20 years of experience in education and the construction industry, Brad brings a unique combination of classroom instruction and real-world expertise to students. As a Construction Teacher and Ivy Tech Adjunct Instructor, he teaches construction and electrical courses, develops curriculum, manages hands-on projects, and helps students earn valuable dual-credit coursework. Outside the classroom, he is actively involved in farming, excavation, and heavy equipment operations, with experience in project management, safety training, equipment transportation, and site development. His diverse background provides students with practical knowledge and a clear understanding of careers in the skilled trades.
