News Summary
Local teens participated in a hands-on event organized by the Boys & Girls Club of San Antonio, exploring various career paths in skilled trades. Held on March 1st at the Eastside Clubhouse, the event provided invaluable training and interaction with experienced tradespeople. As the demand for skilled labor continues to rise amidst a significant labor shortage, this initiative aims to inspire the next generation to consider careers in skilled trades, offering guidance and showcasing the potential for lucrative salaries and career growth.
Exciting Career Opportunities Await Local Teens in San Antonio!
This past Saturday, March 1st, local teens flocked to the Eastside Clubhouse for a hands-on event that showcased exciting career paths in the skilled trades. Hosted by the Boys & Girls Club of San Antonio, the event offered an invaluable opportunity for young people aged 13 to 18 to dive into the world of trades, completely free of charge. With the current job market booming for skilled labor, this event was perfectly timed and filled with promise for the future.
A Hands-On Experience Like No Other
Throughout the day, participants rotated through multiple interactive stations designed to give them a taste of various trades. From carpentry to plumbing, and everything in between, these teens learned fundamental techniques and skills they could carry with them into adulthood. The atmosphere was electric as experienced tradespeople guided the youth, providing insights and sharing experiences that could easily ignite a passion for a trade.
To make the event even more engaging, the attendees took part in an active construction project aimed at improving the clubhouse itself. This practical application not only allowed them to hone their skills but also fostered a sense of community involvement that is essential for personal growth.
Addressing the Labor Shortage
The relevance of such events cannot be overstated, especially considering the current landscape of the labor market. The United States is facing a significant labor shortage in skilled trades, a situation exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. For instance, there were a staggering 388,345 job postings for skilled trades-related positions between May and June. That’s a remarkable 50% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels! As baby boomers continue to retire, with about 28.6 million retiring by the third quarter of 2020, the demand for skilled tradespeople has never been more urgent.
Shifting Perspectives on Skilled Trades
Despite the high skill level required in these fields, many still harbor outdated views that tradespeople are less educated. This perception couldn’t be further from the truth. Take Jake Rankin, a successful construction manager, who made the leap from a traditional college path to the construction industry, where he anticipates a six-figure income. The construction sector showed remarkable growth during the pandemic, making it an appealing option for many.
Another success story comes from Jason Gutierrez, a 25-year-old electrician who chose to forgo college to focus on his trade. In his position, the earning potential ranges from $80,000 to $200,000, proving that skilled trades can offer lucrative financial rewards.
Training Young Talent
The Northside Independent School District has responded to the pressing need for skilled tradespeople by establishing the Construction Careers Academy (CCA). This initiative is training up new generations in various skilled occupations, allowing students to earn industry-recognized credentials, college credits, and even internships before they graduate.
One notable student, 17-year-old Garrett Hermes, has his sights set on plumbing, aspiring to own his own business one day. Meanwhile, Ricardo Longoria, a CCA graduate, is already making his mark as a foreman plumber with an annual earning potential of $60,000 to $70,000. This underscores the tangible benefits of pursuing skilled trades as a viable career path.
Inspiring the Next Generation
John Alvarez, a plumbing instructor at CCA and owner of Coach’s Plumbing, is dedicated to motivating students to weigh their options carefully. His own journey was financed through his plumbing career, demonstrating that success can come from embracing the trades just as much as it can from pursuing a traditional college degree.
In conclusion, Saturday’s event was a shining example of how local initiatives can bridge the gap between education and employment opportunities in the skilled trades. As teens explored hands-on experiences, they took bold steps toward shaping their futures. With growing demand for skilled trades and resources available to support them, there’s no better time for young people to consider a career in this rewarding field.
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Additional Resources
- FOX San Antonio
- Wikipedia: Skilled trades
- News 4 San Antonio
- Google Search: Skilled trades labor shortage
- Corpus Christi Caller-Times
- Google Scholar: Labor shortage skilled trades
- KENS 5
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Construction industry
- Steinbach Online
- Google News: Training skilled trades
