SAW Habitat for Humanity Names Brad Bryant as New Executive Director

Brad Bryant officially began his new role as Executive Director on June 2, 2025. Bryant currently serves as President of the Augusta Home Builders Association and brings extensive experience in construction, education, and community leadership. He previously served as Carpentry I and II Instructor at Valley Career and Technical Center (VCTC) for seven years and was recognized as the first VCTC teacher to be named Augusta County Teacher of the Year in 2021–2022.

Bryant is a former board member and longtime supporter of SAW Habitat’s mission. "Brad checks all of the boxes," said Taylor Smith, SAW Habitat board member. "We needed a highly ambitious person with a reputation for integrity and the connections in the community to get things done. Brad is all of those and has a familiarity with our organization."

One of Bryant’s most notable achievements as an instructor was leading a nine-day blitz build of nine small homes during his final year at VCTC. "I hope the community understands that nothing good happens unless somebody is willing to put in the work," Bryant said at the time.

Bryant also received the Dawbarn Education Award in 2022. Although he deeply enjoyed teaching, he was ready for a new challenge.

For the past couple of years, I’ve paid close attention to what’s happening in housing with this community," said Bryant. "Being a part of the Community Foundation’s SAW Housing workshops, Home Builders Association of Virginia forums, and local planning has helped open my eyes to the need for affordable housing. Working at Habitat feels like where my background, knowledge, and skill set could have the greatest impact. The staff here is filled with quality members who kept this mission alive through tough times. I was excited to get to work with such good people.

To support a smooth leadership transition, David Wenger, former Executive Director of Central Valley Habitat for Humanity, will remain on board for a designated period. Wenger stepped in as interim Executive Director in fall 2024 to help stabilize the organization during a leadership shift.

"The organization is thankful to David for all he has done to help steady the ship," said Jill Bader, Programs Director at SAW Habitat. "We’re excited about what Brad brings to the table, and we’re thankful that Dave and Brad will have some time to work together. We feel it gives us the best chance to move forward in a healthy way."