Collaborations, General News, Green Partners, HPBA & GBA Collaboration – Tour of Irish Sustainable Construction and Manufacturing Sectors
HPBA and GBA Pittsburgh Delegation Visit Mount Lucas to Explore Skills Pathways for High-Performance Building
Apr
Last September, a joint delegation from the High Performance Building Alliance (HPBA) and the Green Building Alliance (GBA) in Pittsburgh visited the National Construction Training Centre at Mount Lucas, operated by LOETB (Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board). The visit formed part of HPBA’s ongoing collaboration with GBA to exchange knowledge and accelerate the development of skills and training frameworks that support high-performance, low-carbon construction.
Hosted by the LOETB team, the delegation toured Mount Lucas’s state-of-the-art training facilities, which provide hands-on education in modern methods of construction, retrofitting, and renewable energy systems. As a national centre of excellence for construction skills, Mount Lucas offers a unique environment for learners to gain practical experience while aligning with Ireland’s climate and housing objectives.
During the visit, the group received presentations from LOETB staff on current training programmes, apprenticeship pathways, and the integration of sustainability principles across the curriculum. Discussions focused on the shared challenges and opportunities in developing the next generation of building professionals capable of delivering net-zero performance across both new and existing building stock.
Speaking about the visit, Amanda Stewart, HPBA CEO emphasised the importance of international collaboration:
“Our exchange with GBA and Mount Lucas highlights how partnerships can accelerate the transition to a more sustainable built environment—through shared learning, investment in people, and a commitment to innovation.”
The Mount Lucas delegation visit emphasises HPBA’s ongoing mission to connect international best practices in high-performance building, foster industry skills development, and strengthen transatlantic cooperation on climate-focused construction solutions.
For more information about Mount Lucas and their programmes, visit www.mountlucas.ie.
