The demand for workers in the construction trades continues to grow, and the York Builders Association (YBA) is committed to spreading awareness about the tremendous career opportunities available locally through events like Construction Career Days. The second annual event took place over several days and included five host companies and nine area high schools. Approximately 80 students participated.
Local high schools were matched with area employers in the construction industry. Students had an opportunity to learn about the range of career paths within each company, see first-hand the kind of work that they do, and meet and speak with individuals in a variety of jobs. All students participating in Construction Career Day events also received a certificate confirming their eligibility for a job interview with any of the participating host companies when they graduate from high school, as well as the proper connections, so they know how to reach out to companies when seeking employment.
The lack of skilled workers in the construction trades is a big challenge, said YBA Executive Vice President Laurie Lourie. While we want to make sure that both students and parents understand that a degree isnt required to get a rewarding, high-paying job, these events also provide us with a perfect opportunity to connect students to local companies that are actively seeking their future workforce. Events like this allow students to see for themselves that local employers are not only hiring, but many of them offer apprenticeships and paid training, along with excellent wages and long-term career paths. These visits can also be really eye-opening as students learn that there are a variety of roles within each company that they might not otherwise have an opportunity to get familiar with.
Steven Wible, Technology Education teacher at Spring Grove Area High School, added Our students were fortunate enough to attend the Construction Career Day program hosted by the York Builders Association and Franks Marble and Granite in Red Lion. It was an authentic learning experience, and my students took away valuable insights into what trade skills are needed for a career in the building trades. I look forward to being involved in future events.
Construction Career Day events are one of several initiatives that the York Builders Association is working on to build a better future for the industry. In October of 2018, YBA launched the YBA WorkforceNOW brand with the objective being a resource in the community for connecting YBA member companies, schools, students and parents and providing resources for opportunities, support and information about careers in the construction trades.
