Building a Future for the Restoration Industry: Higher Education Initiatives and Opportunities

Preparing the Next Generation of Restoration Professionals with Dr. Jake Avila

The restoration industry is preparing for a transformative educational initiative that could shape its future workforce. Dr. Jake Avila, an associate professor at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) with more than 20 years of experience in construction and disaster restoration, is leading efforts to establish a groundbreaking degree program specifically for the restoration industry. This initiative, inspired by MTSU’s successful Concrete Industry Management program, aims to address the growing need for specialized education in restoration.

In this episode of Ask the Expert, Dr. Avila discusses the vision behind the Restoration Industry Management degree program and the steps MTSU and industry leaders are taking to make it a reality. He emphasizes the importance of connecting with high schools, community colleges, and universities to foster interest in restoration careers.

Dr. Avila notes that the restoration industry, a $200 billion market, faces a critical need for educated professionals. “We have to reach young people,” he said. The program's development is a direct response to the needs expressed by industry stakeholders, as demand for skilled individuals who understand the complexities of restoration continues to grow.

MTSU is seeking industry support to establish the Restoration Industry Management degree program, which will provide students with hands-on learning and industry certifications. This joint effort between the university and the restoration industry is already taking shape, with a goal of raising $1 million by December 2024. Additional funds will be allocated for scholarships, student travel, and equipment.

Looking to the Future: How to Get Involved

This initiative is a collective effort, and industry professionals are encouraged to participate by providing financial support or offering their expertise. Contributions will help build the program's foundation and support students pursuing careers in the restoration industry.

"The university has committed approximately $4.7 million over the next five years to launch this program, but we need support from the industry," emphasized Dr. Avila. For more information, contact Dr. Jake Avila at (615) 898-5715 or email jacob.avila@mtsu.edu. To contribute online, select “Other” from the dropdown menu under “What would you like to give to?” and type “Disaster Restoration” in the comment box.

Checks can be made payable to The MTSU Foundation and mailed to P.O. Box 109, Murfreesboro, TN 37132, with “Disaster Restoration” in the memo line.

On the Go?

Listen to the audio version of our conversation!

Catch up on past videos | Browse our Ask the Expert podcasts

Looking for quick answers on restoration, remediation and cleaning topics?
Try Ask R&R, our new smart AI search tool. Ask R&R →

Looking for a reprint of this article?
From high-res PDFs to custom plaques, order your copy today!

Kayla McGowan is the SPAR Partner Manager for PuroClean, where she manages and strengthens the company’s vendor partnership ecosystem. In her role, she serves as a key liaison between PuroClean, approved vendor partners, internal stakeholders, and Franchise Owners, helping connect the network with trusted tools, services, and products that support operational success.

With more than 10 years of experience in marketing and communications within the restoration and cleaning industry, Kayla has built her career around connecting people, ideas, and resources that move the industry forward. She is the former Editor-in-Chief of Restoration & Remediation (R&R) Magazine and continues to contribute to R&R as a writer, bringing her industry knowledge and perspective to its audience.

Kayla holds a B.S. in Criminal Science and an M.S. in Public Safety and Emergency Management from Grand Canyon University. She also serves as Co-Chair of the Restoration Industry Association’s Marketing Committee.

Her industry credentials include Microbial Warrior®️, Certified Forensic Operator®️, and High Risk/High Level Decontamination Specialist™️. Passionate about elevating the restoration industry and the professionals within it, Kayla enjoys building meaningful relationships, sharing knowledge, and creating opportunities for collaboration. Outside of work, she is a food lover who enjoys spending time with her family and being outdoors.