HOUSTON, TX — ConstructReach returned to the Houston, Texas, area for its latest “I built this!” (IBT!) event, aiming to reignite enthusiasm for careers in construction among high school students across the region. Held at Post Houston and hosted in partnership with Skanska and Procore Technologies, the event brought together students, educators, and industry professionals for a day of career exploration and real-world skill building.
With the construction industry facing a significant labor shortage, work-based learning initiatives like IBT! play a critical role in preparing students for high-demand careers. By providing hands-on exposure to industry professionals and real-world job sites, the event helps bridge the gap between education and workforce development.
“We are back in Houston introducing construction careers to the community,” said Paul Robinson, Founder and CEO of ConstructReach. “We’ve got several students here from various schools, introducing them to different career pathways that exist within the construction industry — from the skilled trade side all the way to technology and integration. Students are exploring flooring, electrical, building information systems, and technology to learn what their options are as they transition into young adulthood.”
This year’s “I built this!” event placed special emphasis on both the digital and physical aspects of construction careers, providing students a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience. The event featured interactive stations designed to meet the ways today’s students engage and learn — showcasing immersive virtual reality (VR) simulations, construction technology tools, and dynamic digital environments inspired by the metaverse and gaming. Students used VR headsets to explore 3D job sites, explored real-time project simulations, and learned how augmented reality is shaping modern construction.
"At Procore, our vision is to improve the lives of everyone in construction. That means partnering with the industry to address its most pressing challenges, like the labor shortage,” said Irish Horsey, Procore’s Director of Industry Advancement. “We believe advancing construction goes beyond the technology we provide, and we're committed to driving meaningful change. That’s why we’re proud to support the IBT event and support the future of the workforce.”
| Your local Takeuchi Mfg Ltd dealer |
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| Kirby Smith Machinery |
| Nueces Power Equipment |
At the same time, students got their hands dirty — literally — by participating in core construction activities such as drilling, wiring, and cutting both copper and PVC piping. These tactile experiences gave students a first-hand understanding of skilled trades. From technology to tool work, the event provided a comprehensive look at the wide spectrum of opportunities within the industry.
"The construction industry is in need of skilled people in all areas, and often, finding talent is as simple as introducing them to the positions available," said Dennis Yung, Skanska USA Building Executive Vice President and General Manager. "Showing students the vast opportunities available is an eye-opening experience for them. If you can think of a position, you're likely going to find its equivalent in construction, and it's a joy to see the students get excited about all the possibilities."
Beyond the technical learning, the day ended in celebration. Students networked with peers from other schools and connected with professionals from top construction companies.
“The good thing about this event is that we're able to bridge the gap between industry and education by having educators build relationships with a lot of industry partners so they can introduce opportunities in real time,” Robinson added. “The cool thing about the IBT! event is that it’s not only career exploration but career opportunity as well. Our last Houston event led to several internships, and we’re looking forward to seeing that happen again this year.”
| Your local Cementech dealer |
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| Romco Equipment Co |
| Sierra Machinery |
Photos courtesy of ConstructReach
