In an effort to attract more young people to the construction industry amidst the ongoing labor shortage, the Texas Department of Transportation, Associated General Contractors of Texas, and Workforce Solutions Greater Dallas collaborated on Construction Career Day, held at the Texas Fairgrounds in Dallas.

The event provided an opportunity for 563 student attendees from almost 30 local school districts and trade training organizations throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area to explore career options in the construction industry and connect with infrastructure employers.

The job fair and career exploration event were aimed at showcasing the industry's diversity, career options, and the latest construction equipment. The event also helped students understand the skills and knowledge required to succeed in the industry.

Throughout the day, students had the opportunity to learn about a variety of careers in the industry, from project management and engineering to skilled trades. The event was designed to be interactive, with an assortment of activities that showcased different aspects of the industry.

One of the highlights of the event was the opportunity to see and operate the latest construction equipment brought to the site by local equipment dealers. Students had the chance to see first-hand how heavy equipment operators work and even had the chance to operate the machinery themselves. This hands-on experience demonstrated the importance of equipment safety and proper usage.

Sixty contractors and 175 industry employees participated in the event, providing students with an opportunity to connect with construction professionals and learn about their organizations. The job fair provided students with insight into the various job opportunities available in the industry and the qualifications required to secure them.

With many students expressing an interest in pursuing a career in infrastructure construction, Construction Career Day was an important step toward addressing the industry’s skills gap.

Sponsors for the event included:

• Urban Infraconstruction
• Texas Materials
• Webber
• Austin Bridge & Road
• Kiewit
• Sundt
• Peachtree
• Gibson & Associates
• GSI Highway
• MICA Corporation
• A.L. Helmcamp
• Lhoist
• Lamb Star Engineering
• JJG Development Inc.
• Rogers Group
• Texas Sterling Construction
• Jagoe Public