Build: A Planning Tool for Life and Career

The Build Curriculum was created at Four Mounds for young adults with barriers to employment. It blends hands-on skill with personal growth, helping students build confidence, accountability, and resilience that lead to long-term success.

Build is more than curriculum. It is a replicable workforce tool that employers, mentors, and training organizations can use to strengthen employee growth and retention. By pairing Build with committed mentor staff or supportive supervisors, and a short amount of time invested during each work week, organizations can help employees develop the soft skills and work ethic needed to thrive.

Employers consistently report that younger workers struggle with communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, and a Harris Poll found that 82% of managers have difficulty with soft skills in Gen Z hires. Yet 63% of employees say they are more likely to stay with an organization that invests in their learning and development. Build addresses both concerns by equipping employees with the necessary skills and providing organizations with a pathway to improved retention, stronger buy-in, and long-term success.

Build helps workforce trainers, employers, or other organizations invest in people while empowering them to grow, succeed, and reach their full potential.