Southeast Michigan Contractors Issue 2 2023 19 Fraser High School student explores a 3D rendering of a building using software from Procore. Short Term Program Strengthens Heavy Construction Workforce “The heavy construction industry is far reaching in scope. This type of work includes operations on all major building construction projects including utility work, road construction, paving operations and so much more. We wanted to provide an introductory class that educates students on the vast opportunities that exist in heavy construction,” said Deanna Morley, vice president of education for SEMCA. The program features guest speakers from local construction companies and first up was Andrew Burch, a superintendent at Merlo Construction. Andrew talked to students about his own career path going from mowing lawns to becoming a superintendent at Merlo by the age of 35. His visit helped provide perspective and allowed future construction professionals to see where a strong will and work ethic can get you. “The students had a high interest with Andrew from Merlo,” Morley said. “They had a lot of questions and were excited to see that the training course can lead to a rewarding career.” Morley continued by saying that the intention was to have a short term program that creates fully prepared, entry level laborers just in time for the construction season. SEMCA staff plan to replicate the program in late fall and to develop into further training opportunities as well. The Introduction to Construction class is fully funded by company contributions that provided scholarships to every student in the class. This one-semester program will wrap up in early May and students will have job interviews to secure employment. Contact SEMCA at (248) 298-3600 to get involved with this program. A new program at SEMCA focuses on bringing in entry level construction workers and puts a strong emphasis on mentorship and guidance for students. On top of the curriculum that provides basic knowledge of construction, training to be productive on the job site as well as safe, school staff wanted students to get so much more. Andrew Burch, Merlo Construction, speaks to SEMCA students about the construction industry. INTRO TO CONSTRUCTION SIDEBAR SEMCA instructor, Alex Joshua, showcases three different hammers to students.
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