BELLEVILLE, Ill. – More than 1,000 high school students from across Southern Illinois attended the 24th Annual Metro Construction Career Expo Oct. 22-24 at the Belle-Clair Fairgrounds in Belleville, Ill.

The hands-on event showcased career opportunities in the construction trades.Activities included virtual welding, remote control of heavy equipment and demonstrations of construction skills with digital training aids.

“There are considerable financial advantages of paid apprenticeships in skilled trades – including wages, benefits, and pension – compared to large out-of-pocket college expenses,” said Donna Richter, CEO of the Southern Illinois Builders Association. Richter says the annual Expo plays a critical role in connecting young people with rewarding careers. “The demand for skilled workers in the construction trades is significant, and this Expo gives students a first-hand look at the many opportunities available,” she added.

Those who attended the open house on Oct. 23 learned how apprenticeships provide an excellent path to a stable, well-paying career, Richter said. Presenters spoke of apprenticeship programs that allow participants to earn as they learn and avoid college debt while receiving on-the-job training.

This year’s Expo featured hands-on experiences and demonstrations from the following participating trade unions:

  • Steamfitters Local 439
  • Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council
  • Operative Plasterers & Cement Masons Local 90
  • Operating Engineers Local 520
  • Plumbers and Pipefitters Locals 101 and 553
  • Plumbers and Gasfitters Local 360
  • Iron Workers 392
  • Bricklayers Local 8
  • Sheet Metal Workers Local 268
  • Roofers and Waterproofers Local No. 2
  • IBEW 309 JATC
  • Painters District Council 58

Students from Alton, Highland, Sparta, Triad, Wesclin, Marissa, Mascoutah, New Athens, the Career Center of Southern Illinois, Collinsville, Columbia, Edwardsville, Granite City, Roxana, Staunton, Belleville East, Southwestern, Civic Memorial, Coulterville, Dupo, Freeburg, O’Fallon, Steeleville, Bunker Hill, Cahokia, Calhoun, East St. Louis and The CAVE attended and participated in the Expo.

For more information on apprenticeship programs and other opportunities in the construction industry, visit www.SIBA-AGC.org.