Homebuilding startup Module is opening a new facility called the “Last Mile Lab” in Pittsburgh, PA. The space will house a construction innovation lab as well as a workforce training program in partnership with the Trade Institute of Pittsburgh.
The goal of the space is to fuel innovation in the homebuilding industry while furthering Module’s mission to create a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive way to build new housing. This new effort is made possible by a recent investment from the Richard King Mellon Foundation through their Social Impact Investment program. The Lab is Module’s first phase of a vertical integration plan to scale up operations in the region.
“The Last Mile Lab is step one in our effort to create more jobs in the region and bring about positive change in the industry. At the Lab we can invite collaborators from the industry to test better ways to build, and foster a culture of inclusivity through training and education.” Brian Gaudio, CEO of Module
Workforce Development
The workforce development program’s goal is to create pathways for women and minorities to enter the modular construction industry. Module is partnering with the Trade Institute of Pittsburgh (TIP) to launch this effort by training 5 individuals at TIP’s Carpentry program and providing those trainees with several modular construction education sessions.
“We are very excited to embark on this collaboration. Module brings a much-needed model of affordable and accessible housing to the Pittsburgh region. Through this partnership, Trade Institute students will be exposed to new opportunities in the Module field of sustainable and energy efficient construction.” Donta Green, Executive Director of Trade Institute of Pittsburgh.
Innovation Lab
The Innovation Lab will be used to test, validate, and implement new products and methods to build better, more sustainable homes. At the Lab, Module will be able to integrate new building products and installation methods to improve off-site homebuilding. It will also serve as a facility where Module homes will be finished to ensure they meet high standards, including energy efficiency, design integrity, and finish quality. By implementing best practices created in the Innovation Lab, Module can actualize research and development efforts and provide a next step for the workforce program graduates.
The facility will be operational as early as Q3 of 2022. Module plans to involve a select number of “Innovation Partners” from the building products and construction industry. Those partners will be given the opportunity to test new products and construction techniques at the Last Mile Lab. Any companies interested in participating should reach out to Module CEO, Brian Gaudio.
About Module
Module is a Pittsburgh-based homebuilding startup, whose product and processes enable housing providers to deliver design forward, high quality, energy efficient housing faster than traditional means. Module builds to the Department of Energy, Zero Energy Ready standards which puts them into the top 1% of Energy Efficient homes in the country. www.modulehousing.com
About Trade Institute of Pittsburgh
Trade Institute of Pittsburgh (TIP) is a nonprofit vocational training provider dedicated to providing opportunities for individuals with barriers to employment while meeting a growing need for skilled tradespeople across the region. TIP’s mission is to empower men and women with significant barriers to employment through skill building and job opportunities. TIP offers a 10-week tuition-free program in masonry, a 7-week tuition-free program in carpentry, life skills courses, and social service support. Students are matched with a variety of trades or trade-related fields upon graduation. At TIP, students build a foundation of trade skills and life skills that helps them launch their careers. We bring not only job placement to our students but a path toward upward mobility. https://tipgh.org/
Contact: Brian Guadio
412.368.3412
