ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – On Friday, high schoolers pursuing building trades were drafted into the next phase of their careers.
Fifteen students are graduating from this year’s Construction Connect U.P. program. They have trained with local professionals throughout the school year, rotating between different trades.
“They work with a general contractor, a pipefitting contractor, an electrical contractor,” explained Michael Smith, Executive Director of the U.P. Construction Council. “It’s two hours a day Monday through Friday. They get paid during that time, so they’re earning and learning.”
Each student was selected by a local company or union, which drafted them into an apprenticeship. Smith says Construction Connect U.P. allows the student and the contractor to take each other “for a test drive” and ensure they are an ideal fit.
“This is really a good opportunity for a student to showcase their commitment, their talent, and determine which craft is the best pathway for them,” he said. “The folks that look like me, in the next five to seven years, 40% of us will be eligible to retire. This is our next generation of skilled craftsperson.”
Now, Construction Connect U.P. is selecting students for next year’s program. Smith says the Construction Council hopes to start reaching students in the Eastern U.P.
To learn more about how students can prepare for a future in trades through Construction Connect U.P., click here.
