Gary BenDavid Builders, Inc., a general contracting firm on Martha’s Vineyard, has served the island community since 1994. Known for building and renovating both new and historic homes, the company is committed to craftsmanship, conservation, and long-term client relationships. The firm also supports local workforce development by offering skilled employment opportunities and contributing to the strength of the island’s building trades.
I had a vision of getting more involved in the energy compliance side of it,” said founder Gary BenDavid. As energy codes evolved and compliance became increasingly important, founder Gary BenDavid had a vision of strengthening the firm’s role in energy efficiency. On the island, however, conducting Home Energy Rating System (HERS) assessments was challenging, according to company founder Gary BenDavid; only two people were able to do the work, making the process costly and difficult to coordinate. For years, Gary BenDavid Builders had to outsource these assessments to external providers, which further highlighted the need to bring this expertise in-house.
When Mark Leonard, now a Certified HERS Rater, joined the company in 2024, he took the initiative to research workforce development opportunities and identified the Workforce Training Fund Express Program (WTFP) as a resource. Through a WTFP grant, Mark was able to complete the Hybrid HERS Rater Training offered by the Northeast Home Energy Rating Systems Alliance. The course combined online learning with hands-on sessions, giving him both the technical knowledge and practical skills to perform HERS assessments. “The training was convenient and effective, with online sessions here on the island and in-person testing in Watertown,” said Leonard.
By developing this expertise in-house, Gary BenDavid Builders no longer needs to rely on outside consultants. The training has improved efficiency, reduced costs, and positioned the company to meet stricter energy standards. It also gave Leonard a valuable credential that will support his career growth. “It was a quick turnaround to get approved. The ease of use was the best part — it wasn’t labor-intensive to apply,” Leonard noted.
For Gary BenDavid, the investment reflects both industry change and community need: “Things are evolving and changing rapidly. Being here on the island, it’s not easy to find people with that expertise, so this training filled a real need.”
He also encourages other small businesses to explore the program: “Don’t let the funding hold you back. There are resources out there,” he said.
By developing in-house skills through the Workforce Training Fund Express Program, Gary BenDavid Builders has strengthened its capabilities, supported its employees, and enhanced its ability to provide high-quality, energy-conscious construction to the Martha’s Vineyard community, demonstrating how the Workforce Training Fund Program helps small businesses across Massachusetts become stronger, more self-reliant, and better positioned for a sustainable future.