The popular event aims to empower youth across Northwest Indiana to explore career options in the skilled trades.
Crown Point, Ind. (November 14, 2024) — Thanks to a renewed focus on infrastructure, an ongoing housing crisis, and several large-scale projects scheduled, – Northwest Indiana’s construction sector is experiencing a surge in new jobs. Yet, despite this extraordinary growth, many area employers now need help finding the next generation of skilled workers to fill these roles.
Looking to help bridge this gap, Center of Workforce Innovations and Construction Advancement Foundation are co-hosting the 8th Annual Construction & Skilled Trades Day, which returns to the Lake County Fairgrounds in Crown Point, Ind. on November 19, 2024.
The event is scheduled to coincide with the 10th anniversary of National Apprenticeship Week, a nationwide celebration of registered apprenticeships sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Thirty-five schools have registered more than 2,000 students to participate in this popular event targeting 11th and 12th graders, career & technical trainees, and out-of-school youth from around the region. Once onsite, they will meet with trade organizations and contractors in an immersive environment, allowing them to learn about the various career pathways available.
“All of these skilled laborers bring equipment and their technology to create these elaborate mock worksites that give young people the interactive, hands-on experience that gets them excited about an apprenticeship opportunity,” explained Ami Reese, Director of Marketing and Communications. “All the careers featured in this event offer apprenticeships where young people, even those facing barriers, can earn while they learn on a path to $75k, $85k and up jobs and lifestyles.”
As a DOL-appointed Apprenticeship Ambassador, CWI champions educational opportunities to train Indiana’s future labor force. In addition to hosting Construction and Skilled Trade Days, CWI manages the Bridge the Gap program. This innovative initiative offers interactive workshops and skill assessments for high school juniors and seniors in local school districts.
For more information about the event, please contact Ami Reese at (219) 981-4126 or areese@cwicorp.com.