Nurturing young talent and providing opportunities for vocational discernment is critical for the health of every community but the lack of skilled labor in the construction industry is a nation-wide problem that results in delays and increased costs. The Home Builders Institute estimates that 61,000 new construction workers are needed to keep up with demand and replace retiring professionals.
As a community-minded firm, we are pleased to be participating in several workforce development initiatives. This summer, Rogers and Willard will host interns through the Summer Youth Internship Program of Mobile County, providing valuable on the job experience and mentorship to area college students with an interest in construction management.
In addition, we're excited to be part of the Mobile expansion of The Academy of Craft Training, a public-private partnership between the State of Alabama K-12 system and the local construction industry. Piloted in Birmingham to provide a future-proof skill set to young graduates, the initiative equips students with essential skills that will enable them to enter well-paid construction trades, including building construction, HVAC, welding, plumbing/pipe fitting and electrical.
Rogers and Willard with Associated Builders and Contractors, in collaboration with a number of other local firms are pleased to have provided leadership to secure a facility and long-term funding for Academy of Craft Training Mobile. To learn more, visit https://academyofcrafttraining.org/