MEET THE CREATORS
OUR STORY
The NEXT Academy was born in 2018 out of what co-creators, Chad Jones and Cody Phillips felt was equal parts opportunity and necessity.
Looking to positively impact the union construction industry that has given so much to them, they challenged themselves to develop a leadership program that would help current executives as well as those individuals targeted for leadership positions in the future. The price point of a degree program and the duration/impact of other construction leadership seminars and workshops was prohibitive for a wide variety of contractors. It was imperative that NEXT was designed with affordability for each participant, while also creating the most targeted, flexible and impactful academy available to union contractors anywhere in the country. The dichotomy of providing the most value at the lowest cost has been achieved with The NEXT Academy.
“NEXT will take you places you’ve never been as an executive. A year long, deep-dive analyzing your construction company through a different lens. A twelve month immersion into your role as a leader. Our main objective at The NEXT Academy is to help you become more sustainable and profitable long into the future. We look forward to helping each of the NEXT participants on that necessary journey.” 🔘 Cody Phillips
MEET CHAD & CODY
Having previously worked for union contracting companies, coupled with their background as trade association executives, Chad and Cody understand the unique business environment and challenges of NEXT Academy participants.
CHAD JONES
Chad is responsible for creating, communicating, and implementing the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction. When he is not engulfed in his full-time role as Western PA NECA Executive Director he helps lead the development and execution of NEXT and works diligently to create new business opportunities for NEXT. He also Co-Hosts The NEXT Academy Podcast which focuses on Construction Leadership, Brand Growth and Staying on Offense.
CODY PHILLIPS
Cody focuses primarily on designing and implementing strategy, plan and procedure for NEXT. He oversees comprehensive goals for performance and growth, day-to-day operations, technology implementation, brand strategy and faculty. His responsibilities include the development of artistic aspects used to help promote and establish the NEXT brand. He is responsible for the overall look and feel of marketing, media, and creative associated with the organization. He also Co-Hosts The Podcast, assists in facilitating all Live Webinars and curates all LMS Activity for NEXT participants. If you are seeing it, chances are he built it.
"The speed of change continues to increase in business and in our personal lives. Those who continually push themselves to grow and learn will be prepared for what success will demand in the 21st century." 🔘 Chad Jones
