Welcome to the Class of 2032

Creating a more diverse and inclusive industry will not happen overnight, but there are actions we can take now to inspire the next generation of builders. 

Our industry is unique in the number of career opportunities it provides, as well as the educational pathways that can lead to success. Currently there isn’t a lot of information available to students about what careers in construction really look like. Some people swing hammers, but many don’t! Whether college-bound, ready to work, or interested in hands-on training, students with a wide range of aspirations can find a challenging and enjoyable path to prosperity in the construction industry. 

We invite every construction company and/or project team, regardless of size, to help us engage and enlighten the next generation of our industry by connecting with a 3rd grade class in your area.

As on-site builders, our project teams are in the perfect position to inspire the next generation. Skilled trades, equipment operators, VDC, project managers, safety professionals and others on project team have a wealth of experience and stories to share with youth. 

In addition to supporting youth, the act of working together to help others builds empathy among the team and promotes a feeling of inclusivity. 

3rd grade is the perfect age for students to learn about careers in construction, especially from people who “look like them” and “they can relate to.” Research has shown that career interests, and associated gender bias about jobs, are formed as early as age four. 

The 3rd grade is an age of great academic and social/emotional growth. Students begin applying logic and reason to concepts, their attention span increases and for the first time they understand the concept of ‘future.’ They transition from wanting to be “dragons” and “princesses” to more realistic interests in STEM, entertainment, writing, science, and the like. Biases about what careers look like for people like them have started to form, but they are developmentally primed for new options.