Free Event Oct 15: Explore Careers in Construction and Architecture

Kids, teens and young adults can explore careers in the fields of construction, architecture and engineering, meet leaders from union and apprenticeship trade programs, and engage in hands-on projects at the Construction Junction on Wednesday, October 15 from 4:30 – 7:30 PM at the Wakeman Boys & Girls Club (WBGC) Madison Avenue Community Clubhouse (595 Madison Avenue, Bridgeport, CT).

Elementary and middle school students and their families are invited from 4:30 – 6 PM; teens and young adults are invited from 6 – 7:30 PM.

Sponsored by a collective of industry partners to mark Construction Inclusion Week, participating organizations include Bridgeport Caribe Youth Leaders, DeWalt Tool Company, EMCOR, Gilbane Building Company, IBEW Local 488, Iron Workers 424, Kafa Group, O&G Industries, Turner Construction Company, and Wakeman Boys & Girls Club.

The event is free and open to young people along with family members; advance registration is requested: www.wakemanclub.org/events. Light refreshments will be served.

“We’re looking forward to bringing together industry leaders and local youth to connect on careers and opportunities in these important fields. The Construction Junction directly supports our goal to help young people achieve positive outcomes in life & workforce readiness,” commented Sabrina E. Smeltz, Wakeman Boys & Girls Club CEO.

“Innovative partnerships and programs are essential to creating opportunities for the current and next generation of our industry. Construction in Connecticut is a multi-billion-dollar industry and Construction Inclusion Week is one opportunity to spark interest and excitement in local youth about the great careers available,” stated Chad McCullough, Turner Construction Company, Vice President & General Manager.

Participants will also learn about the ACE Mentor Program offered at the Wakeman Boys & Girls Club, designed to expose high school students to careers in architecture, construction, and engineering, including skilled trades. Mentors from ACE companies, such as Turner, work with the students to complete a culminating architectural project. Through this 15-week program, 30 teens have opportunities for summer externships and college scholarships. More information is available on the WBGC website (www.wakemanclub.org).

With three Clubhouses and two school-based sites across Bridgeport and Fairfield, WBGC is committed to providing a safe space and an inspiring environment for youth and teens, with a focus on academic success, health & wellbeing, character & leadership, and life & workforce readiness.
To learn more, contact Leslie LaSala, Director of Marketing & Communications, at 203/909-3381 x 205 or llasala@wakemanclub.org.