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Recruiting Begins at Any Age

With a goal of introducing the benefits of a career in the union trades to students who may not otherwise be able to access that information, the 2009 Building Advantage Career Fair was a highly successful and important event that showcased our ongoing commitment to workforce development.

Similar to previous years, high schools from Southeast Wisconsin were invited to a day of hands-on demonstrations provided by all 14 union construction trades, as well as three state government agencies and BIG STEP. Nearly 700 students participated in the event, which was held in March. Welding, cement finishing and various painting techniques were but a few of the trade opportunities presented.

"This event is a shining example of the union's commitment to workforce development and positively promoting the union trades. More importantly, it shows what we can accomplish by working together," said Ken Kraemer, executive director of Building Advantage. "Knowing how dedicated the union trades are to recruiting and training the best individuals possible gives our contractors peace of mind."

Not only did the Career Fair open the eyes of many students, but feedback from the instructors was overwhelmingly positive. Since budget cuts in our school systems often affect technical education, instructors from the high schools were relieved they could bring students to the event to get a feel for the trades.

Building Advantage is already taking steps to make next year's Career Fair another success and to help ensure the volunteers continue to meet the needs of the students and instructors.

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