RESEARCH & EDUCATION

Mission Statement
The New York State Builders Association Research and Education Foundation (NYSBA REF) is the pre-eminent philanthropic foundation in New York State dedicated to advancing the housing industry through research and education. We provide scholarships, research grants and other education programs to further the professionalism of the housing industry for the benefit of the public.

Builder/Remodeler Training Center
This Online Training Center offers a variety of free and fee-based video training designed to bring the builders, remodelers, and consumers into the field with state and national experts on a variety of issues that are important to our industry today. These issues include Building Codes, Energy Efficiency, Building Science and Water and Mold, among others. They can be found by clicking on the link above and looking under the appropriate Topic buttons.

ENERGY STAR Programs
NYSBA REF has partnered with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to promote the New York ENERGY STAR^® Labeled Homes Program for new construction and the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR^® Program for remodelers. ENERGY STAR^® programs offers businesses and consumers energy-efficient solutions to save energy, money and help protect the environment for future generations.

Educational Seminars and Training Programs
NYSBA REF administers educational seminars and training programs to qualified builders throughout New York State on the benefits of ENERGY STAR, the New York State Energy Conservation Code, the New York State Building Codes and on Building Sciences designed to enhance and promote better building practices.

Scholarship Program
The William Morehouse Scholarship Program awards money to qualified students who are pursuing a one, two or four-year college program in construction or a construction related field. in New York State. NYSBA REF sponsors the Scholarship Program with matching funds provided by NYSBA’s local affiliates enabling qualified candidates to meet the expenses of educational opportunities.

Builder and Remodelor Certification
(Under development)
NYSBA REF is partnering with higher educational institutions to develop a certification program designed to educate and train builders and remodelers that will expand and enhance their existing skills furthering their reputation and marketability in the industry.

Research
NYSBA REF continually seeks and undertakes new research projects in partnership with other educational and governmental organizations. Current projects include researching farmland and open space in addition to developing educational curriculum for carpentry and electrical technologies at the Sullivan County Community College.

Estate Planning & Gift Giving
NYSBA REF recently initiated this program to increase the visibility and level of charitable giving statewide. Through tax-deductible gift giving, NYSBA REF will engage in regional efforts focusing on education, training and research across the State.

For more information on any of the above listed programs email NYSBA REF at ref@nysba.com or call the number listed below.