Alex Holwerda | Sentinel-Tribune
The Home Builders Association of Greater Toledo facilitated a “Build My Future” career fair in October.
Taking place at the Wood County Fairgrounds, this interactive event was designed to introduce high school students to the many career opportunities available within the residential construction industry.
“I have learned about electricians, light bulbs, cementing, and more,” said Aaliyah Thompson, a student at Horizon Science Academy in Toledo. “This is a good experience for people to explore and see what types of jobs they like.”
Unlike traditional career fairs, Build My Future offered a unique hands-on experience. Students had the opportunity to try out various trades, operate construction equipment, and engage directly with industry professionals. The goal was to provide students with real-world experience for careers such as carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, masonry, and more, sparking interest in these high-demand fields.
“I was able to learn more about bricks, cement, and roofing today,” said Cincere Massengill, also from Horizon Science Academy. “It was really cool to see how our houses are constructed.”
The event drew over 700 students from schools throughout Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan, giving them the opportunity to explore pathways in construction and skilled trades. The event highlighted the importance of preparing the next generation of workers for meaningful careers in a growing industry.
“I’m not particularly going into this field. I thought it would be fun to check out every station,” said Brysen Hanthrow, a senior at Pike Delta York High School. “The skilled trades are always a nice backup plan.”
Businesses attended to show students what careers are available.
“We are promoting Mack Industries, which is a precast concrete company. We have multiple plants throughout the country,” said April Guy. “We are here to show the kids the precast concrete industry and what we do. This is a neat event. Hopefully, we can help start their careers.”
“We’re just trying to get younger kids involved in the skilled trades. We’re a supplemental contractor company on the management side of things. There is a demand for workers in the skilled trades, from laborers all the way up to management,” said Brad Buchanan, service technician with Northwood Door. “There is a great opportunity to make good money. I hope the kids realize that there is more than just skilled labor. There are also jobs in management. You don’t need to go to college to have a good career.”
