Construction Career Days Held this Week

More than 1,200 high school students from across Massachusetts will explore construction industry professions and get hands-on training at the 12th Annual Massachusetts Construction Career Days on April 30, and May 1, at the New England Laborers’ Training Academy in Hopkinton.   
This popular event helps meet the needs of both high school students who are making career decisions and the construction industry that is facing a critical workforce shortage. Students will discover that - whether their interests lie in math, carpentry, mechanics or engineering -the construction industry offers challenging, rewarding and high-paying professions. With the average age of a construction worker in the United States at 46, construction industry leaders are concerned that some time-tested skills may be lost forever. 
This two-day event works to help avert that crisis. Construction Career Days exhibitors include construction and related companies, MassDOT, vendors, equipment dealers, labor unions, apprentice programs, universities and colleges, engineers, and others.  Each donates their time, equipment, and in some cases operators to ensure students experience the industry. During all hands-on activities students are supervised, coached and mentored by qualified and experienced industry professionals.
Students will have the opportunity to: 

• Discuss careers with industry professionals
• Learn about apprenticeship opportunities
• Meet University & College representatives to discuss continuing formal education
• Compete in engineering and construction challenges
• Operate backhoes, excavators, jackhammers, pavers, rollers, and other equipment
• Participate in concrete finishing, welding, cutting, burning, and electrical work
• Build a tool box or lay a brick wall
• Complete a survey loop

• Wednesday – April 30, 2014 / 9:00 am – 1:30 pm / 600 Students from Western MA
• Thursday -   May 1, 2014 / 8:00 am – 1:00 pm   / 600 Students from Eastern MA