Construction Careers Promoted with Mobile Workshop
Several industry groups participated in a workforce event to promote a range of careers including construction. A coalition consisting if the Carolinas Associated General Contractors (AGC), the SC Trucking Association, the SC Homebuilders, and the SC Forestry Association have sought state funding to help promote careers in their industries.
The coalition has secured a recurring funding stream in the Senate version of the budget to help fund a “tricked out” 18-wheeler that will serve as a mobile workshop featuring the following trades: CAD & Drawing, Pipe Fitting, Diesel Technician, CDL Driver, Carpentry, Electrical, Plumping, HVAC, Welding, and Heavy Equipment Operator.
The state of Arkansas rolled out a program a few years ago called Be Pro Be Proud, which you can check out at www.beprobeproud.org. The coalition above, along with other related industries, is interested in seeing South Carolina support the funding of own mobile workshop, Be Pro Be Proud SC. A mobile workshop that can be taken to schools, DJJ, fairs, football games and that is designed to gain the excitement of kids through look, feel, and play, which will go far in piquing their interest in one or more of the involved industries.
The state’s budget conferees will meet soon to discuss the industries’ needs, and learn how the truck will be a viable solution. The SC House will be asked to adopt the SC Senate amount in the final budget. In addition to several house and senate leaders, Gov. Henry McMaster is supporting the initiative as well.
On April 25, 2017 from 2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. on the South Carolina Statehouse north end steps, an event to roll out the model program, initiated and supported by the Arkansas Chamber of Commerce and a group of associated industry organizations, will take place.
The following elected officials, state agency, and industry representatives have been invited to speak about this vital initiative:
•The Honorable Henry McMaster, Governor of South Carolina
•Senator Thomas Alexander, S.C. District 1
•Representative Gary Simrill, York County
•Susan Pretulak, Vice President of Economic Development and Workforce Competitiveness, SC Technical College System
•Cheryl Stanton, Executive Director, Department of Employment and Workforce
•Elisabeth Kovacs , Deputy Director-Workforce Development, S.C. Department of Commerce
•James Garman, President, HBA of S.C. and President, Willow Tree Low Country Homes
•Clifton Parker, S.C. Trucking Association
•Marty McKee, Vice President of King Asphalt and Carolinas AGC Board Chair
Additionally, Carolinas AGC is leading efforts to battle the workforce shortage issue with Build Your Career, a program which promotes construction careers in middle/high schools, in community colleges, and at career fairs.
