The Northeast Construction Trades Workforce Coalition, in conjunction with Whitbeck Construction and WSWHE BOCES, recently held its inaugural Construction Summer Camp for middle school girls, aimed at breaking down gender barriers in the construction industry and fostering a new generation of empowered builders.
“By collaborating with local schools, businesses and legislators, we aimed to promote the trades as a viable and rewarding career option for the next generation,” said Doug Ford, the president of the Northeast Construction Trades Workforce Coalition.
The camp took place July 22-26 at the Whitbeck Construction Education Center, 4728 Route 50 in Gansevoort. The girls had the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities and learn how math, technology, science and design apply to construction. They toured homes under construction by Witt Construction, and also toured the Pellette Stone Corporation Quarry & Plant.
The camp concluded on July 26 with a “Construction Olympics” followed by an opportunity for the students, parents, industry partners, and the media to hear from Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner and others on this unique summer camp.
The Northeast Construction Trades Workforce Coalition’s mission is to educate, inspire and connect people in pursuit of rewarding careers in the trades, driving economic growth while building and sustaining local communities. What started as a small task force within the Saratoga Builders Association (SBA) in Saratoga County along with the support of Curtis Lumber leadership has grown into a force that extends beyond its initial members. Today, it includes individuals with varying professional backgrounds, all united in a mission to dispel misconceptions and educate about the facts.