Construction is more than steel, concrete, and machinery. It is a human story built on grit, craftsmanship, and the belief that communities grow stronger when people have the chance to create something that lasts.
Founded in 1996, Spirit of Construction began with a simple idea: the industry thrives when its people thrive. What started as an effort to honor local contractors grew into a mission‑driven organization focused on investing in scholarships, workforce development programs, and community partnerships. Through every stage of growth, we have stayed committed to opening doors for the next generation of builders.
Our work is carried out through funding initiatives that strengthening workforce programs, championing the trades, and provide scholarships that expand access to individuals who want to enter the construction field.
Strengthen Workforce Programs
We have invested more than $3 million in initiatives that train future construction professionals, beginning as early as middle school by introducing young people to construction careers. These programs are powered by volunteers who share industry insights and help connect interested individuals to real opportunities. In 2026 alone, we awarded $172,365 in grants to 21 nonprofits advancing construction education and workforce development across Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.
Our commitment also includes strategic investments in programs at Allied Construction Industries (ACI) and TradesNKY. ACI delivers school‑aligned outreach from kindergarten through high school, offering applied STEM exploration, career readiness, and entry‑level, industry‑recognized credentials. Their Construction Career Advocacy Programs (CCAP) builds a strong pathway from classroom to career by partnering directly with schools to strengthen or launch construction career pathways.
TradesNKY connects schools, industry, and community partners to prepare students for high‑demand, high‑skill careers that build, power, and move our region forward. Their K–12 model creates a clear progression for students to gain exposure (K–5), explore (6–8), and engage (9–12) with the essential workforce that keeps our community running.
Champion the Trades
We honor leaders who shape Greater Cincinnati’s construction industry through our Lifetime Achievement Awards. To date, 116 professionals have been recognized for their impact and leadership. In 2026 the following Honorees will be recognized at the 30th annual gala: Mark Luegering, Messer Construction Mike Huseman, The Huseman Group and Paul Hemmer, Jr., Paul Hemmer Company.
Support Students Through Scholarships
Since 2004, Spirit of Construction has invested $788,557 in 338 students, helping them advance their education and build meaningful careers.
- Higher Education Scholarships Available at the University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati State Technical College, Northern Kentucky University, and Miami University, these awards support students pursuing construction‑related degrees.
- Skilled Trades Scholarships Designed for individuals entering high‑demand, hands‑on professions, these scholarships help students stay enrolled and complete their training.
- Women in Construction Scholarships Supporting women in degree programs, apprenticeships, and certification courses, these awards expand access and opportunity across the industry.
- Military Scholarships These scholarships help veterans transition into civilian construction careers by easing the financial burden of education and recognizing the leadership they bring to the field.
Experience the Spirit of Construction
Our events bring together industry professionals, students, and community partners to strengthen Greater Cincinnati’s construction community.
- Scholarship Breakfast, September 23, 2026: A morning of inspiration and recognition as we award new scholarship recipients.
- 30th Annual Gala, October 24, 2026: Our largest event of the year, celebrating Lifetime Achievement honorees and raising funds to advance our mission.
- Women in Construction Happy Hour, February 2027: An energizing evening that builds connection and celebrates women shaping the local construction industry.
- Spring Fling, May 2027: A celebratory happy hour where we award our annual grants to local nonprofits advancing construction workforce initiatives.
If you are new to our work, welcome. There is a place for you in this story, and we look forward to building something extraordinary together.
Attend our Events | Apply for a Scholarship | Apply for a Grant
By: Amanda Smith
Executive Director, Spirit of Construction
