More than 200 middle school students recently attended ABC Keystone's Construction Wars event, where they experienced a variety of hands-on activities related to the trade industry.
Students from more than 20 schools throughout Lancaster and York counties participated in the event, held at ABC Keystone, 135 Shellyland Road, Manheim. They were given opportunities to wire electrical circuits, build wooden benches, lay brick, construct PVC pipe projects and bend sheet metal to create toolboxes. Additionally, participants learned basic CPR techniques, reviewed safety requirements and explored construction technology.
According to ABC Keystone, the construction industry needs more than 650,000 additional workers in 2022 alone to meet the rising demand. "We developed the Construction Wars program because we feel it's important for kids to have the opportunity to learn what this industry is all about," explained Stephanie Larkin, vice president of education, safety and workforce development for ABC Keystone. She noted that targeting middle school students gives participants a chance to consider enrolling in career and technology programs by the time they enter high school.
For the program, students worked alongside professionals in the industry to learn skills and create projects to take home. "This is an infinite industry. There will always be a need for this type of job and for people to do this work," said David Rivera, who supervised students in the carpentry project. Eighth-grader Jasmine Gutierrez said her favorite part of the day was the carpentry work. "It was a really cool experience to learn how people make things and to get to see what these jobs are," she stated. "This day was really fun."
Watching the students try something new was inspiring to Ira Berman, a carpenter journeyman with Arthur Funk & Sons. "This is such a great opportunity to get these kids out of their comfort zone and give them a chance to try something new," he said. "This could plant a seed that could grow into something great."
Doug Dvorchak, representing Murray insurance, said Construction Wars is one of his favorite days of the year. "When a student gets to hold a drill for the first time, it's great to see their eyes light up," he remarked. "They get to make something they can take home to share with the families, and they get to do hands-on work with mentors in the industry."
This is the fifth year ABC Keystone has held the event, and it's needed more than ever, said Dave Sload, president and CEO of the organization. "We want to expose kids to what's available to them and help them see the value of this work," he stated. "We are one of the last 'American Dream' industries. You can start in the trenches and work your way up to owning your own business. We want these kids to see what's possible."
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