At a glance
Jack Jones, chair of Alfred State’s Building Trades Department, said the Careers in Construction event provided students with great insight into careers in the residential arm of construction.
Alfred State Building Trades students recently had the opportunity to learn more about in-demand residential trades jobs at a daylong “Careers in Construction” event in Canandaigua.
Hosted by the Rochester Home Builders’ Association (RHBA) and the Construction Industry Foundation, the event allowed students to tour the Riedman Design Studio, the NextGen Building Components facilities, and a new home construction site at The Cottages at Canandaigua.
According to the RHBA, homes within the Rochester area are taking longer than usual to build, repair, or remodel because of an ongoing shortage of skilled carpenters, engineers, plumbers, and framers. The RHBA states that the industry is still recovering from the housing downturn and market recession that forced many contractors out of the trades.
Jack Jones, chair of Alfred State’s Building Trades Department, said the Careers in Construction event provided students with great insight into careers in the residential arm of construction.
“Students were able to see the great need for their skills sets in the industry today,” Jones said. “They were also able to speak with successful Alfred State alumni who encouraged them to work hard, use their skills to get involved in the community, and capitalize on networking opportunities. These events help students make the mental jump from classroom theory to tangible career options that can be rewarding, satisfying, and lucrative. The Building Trades Department is grateful for the Rochester Homebuilder’s Association hosting this event and their commitment to education in the trades.”
