At AGC we firmly believe in the value of reaching out to future workers long before they're seriously thinking about career choices. We want to show them the exciting world of construction before we are discarded as a career choice.

We also are aware that not one size or program fits all and there is no single solution to this problem. That's why we not only invested in several different types of programs and formed alliances with a number of different groups, but we also are pleased to highlight the creative efforts of our members and chapters.

We encourage all AGC members to pick a program, an activity, or an event and get involved. We won't reach critical mass on this issue without the help and energy of everyone.

Below are a sample of national programs that AGC members and chapters are involved with. Please let us know if your firm or chapter is involved with a program that isn't listed here. Contact Liz Elvin at elvinl@agc.org.

AGC Partners with The Manufacturers Institute

The Associated General Contractors of America and The Manufacturing Institute have signed a formal partnering agreement, pledging to work together to give high school students ways to graduate with nationally portable, industry-recognized skills credentials to succeed in a range of high-paying jobs. This new partnership, signed at the 91st AGC Annual Convention in Orlando, Florida, will place greater focus on competency-based education to help cut rising high school dropout rates, champion new investments and support for education reform and workforce development as best way to keep at-risk students in school and on the track to high-paying careers.

ACE Mentor Program

AGC of America is a national partner of the ACE Mentor Program, an after-school program for selected high school students interested in pursuing an advanced career in architecture, construction, or engineering (ACE). ACE makes a special attempt to reach students that otherwise may not become aware of the challenges and rewards of a career in the design and construction industry. Several chapters, as well as a number of member companies, are involved in this program.

Exploring transportation careers

Go! is a free, online magazine for teens and young adults that explores the world of transportation and the careers they can find there. Read all about Go! in this two-page information sheet.

Junior Achievement BizTown

Junior Achievement BizTown gives elementary school students the opportunity to operate banks, manage restaurants, run a construction company, and vote for mayor. The program helps students connect the dots between what they learn in school and the real world. Several AGC chapters, including San Diego, Oregon-Columbia, and the Arizona Builders Alliance, have become involved in local BizTowns. A presentation on the Arizona BizTown was made at a recent AGC Building Contractors' conference. A video on the Arizona effort is also available.

SkillsUSA

SkillsUSA is a partnership of students, teachers and industry working together to ensure America has a skilled work force. Its annual competition in June each year attracts thousands of young people from across the nation.