Construction Inclusion Week 2025: Toolbox Talk 2

Sparking Early Interest in the Construction Industry

Getting in front of students early is how we build talent pipelines, not just projects.

A conversation centered on enhancing young talents helps teams understand why this outreach matters for the future of our industry. It will equip them with practical ways to share their own construction story so that the jobsite doesn't feel out of reach for the next generation. The goal is to provide tips for talking to students, parents, and teachers so they can see your field as more than just digging and hammering. By clearing up common myths about construction careers such as long hours or limited pay we can show the real benefits and inspire others to see construction as a career that builds communities, pays the bills, and makes a difference.

PILLAR ALIGNMENT: Community Engagement, Attract & Retain

Sample Activity Options

JOBSITE ACTIVITY

Practice 60-second "trade pitches" to describe your work in simple exciting ways and why it matters.

OFFICE ACTIVITY

Build a "Career Day Kit" with key talking points, visuals, and personal stories.

School/Community Activity

Sponsor a “Tool Demo Day” with trade professionals and hands-on activities.

Group Activity

Build a “Trades MythBusters” list as a team, ask, what do students get wrong about the industry?

Discussion Questions

It’s time to lay the foundation for the future of our industry. Together, we’ll explore ways to build a strong pipeline of talent by making construction careers more visible and exciting to the next generation. The focus is on becoming mentors and scaffolding for young individuals: sparking their interest, guiding their growth, and inspiring them to join our crew so the industry continues to thrive.

  • What stereotypes do students and parents/families have about construction careers?
  • How can we make construction more visible, and more relatable, to young individuals?
  • What stories or actions can you share to make construction, and the trades feel exciting?
  • How can we better partner with local schools or youth programs?
  • Who’s someone that inspired you to pursue this path?

Start planning your Toolbox Talk Activities now! Download this Toolbox Talk below or download the full set:

Download Toolbox Talk 2 Download All Toolbox Talks

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Opening Doors through Mentorship

Mentor your crew to build a stronger team

Sparking Early Interest in the Construction Industry

Build a talent pipeline by inspiring the next generation

Respect and Inclusion on the Jobsite/ Workplace

Create a respectful crew for a safer jobsite

Career Re-entry

Build your workforce by giving second chances

Building an Inclusive Site Culture

Reinforce an inclusive crew with everyday actions

Mental Health in Construction

Promote mental well-being to build a safer jobsite

Psychological Safety in Construction

Constructing a Culture of Trust and Safety

Pivot & Build – Life After Athletics

Harness athletic talent to strengthen your crew

Construction Careers for Veterans

Framing Opportunities for Veterans in Construction

Supporting People with Different Abilities and Neurodivergent Thinking Styles

Different minds, same mission: a stronger crew

Small Actions, Big Impact

Small actions build a stronger jobsite culture.

Bridging Generations: Respecting Differences, Building Together

Uniting Crews Through Generational Understanding

Economic Opportunity - Broadening Opportunity for Qualified Suppliers

Expanding Possibilities Through a Broad Supplier Network
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