How do you get a master builder if there isn't any construction going on for him to improve his skills?

Once the construction projects have all been completed in v1.0, the only opportunity to train builders is an Island Event that will usually occur one or more times during a typical game. When the v1.1 update is released, there will be a way to train builders throughout the game!

So it's important to have a master builder even when all construction projects are completed?

Ummmmm....the answer to that is a bit of a spoiler. Let's just say that one could come in handy later.

It apppears as though the game can't be completed in many cases because the builders don't live long enough.

The real problem is that, because we tend to think in a linear fashion, people try to do the puzzles in order. While there are some puzzle dependencies, the puzzles are rarely completed in exact "numerical order." In fact, the puzzles aren't even numbered in the game, despite the fact that they are referred to numerically in the discussions of them. The truth is that the 12th puzzle can be solved much earlier in the game. Most people don't realize that because it's somewhat of an easter egg that has to be worked at to find.

In addition, there will be a permanent place to train builders when the v1.1 update is released (just in case people wait to the end to solve that last puzzle).

i've found that the key is to not to do any extra projects until the criteria for puzzle 12 is fufilled. you can run the game with just 30 ppl or so. just build the first hut and it should work.

Not A bab Idea

I have a master builder, and he doesn't seem to be doing me any favors. I have 1-9 solved, and now all he does is swim, no matter how many times I drop him by things.

I sent you a private message with some hints!