FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 26, 2011
Thousands of Students Attend the 2011 Construction Science Expo
With the sounds of construction filling the air, over 1,100 Detroit Public School students filled the Detroit Science Center May 24 to take part in the first annual Construction Science Expo.
Leaders of the construction industry partnered with the Black Caucus Foundation of Detroit, Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), and the Detroit Public Schools (DPS) to provide students hands on experience with the construction industry.
"Statistics shows that the number of students interested in pursuing careers in design and construction careers are waning," said Doug Needham, P.E., of the Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association (MITA), which was among the event sponsors. "The Michigan’s Design and Construction Coalition, which MITA was a part of, worked with the Black Caucus Foundation of Detroit and MDOT to excite the young students of Detroit about the opportunities that exist in design and construction industry. The need for young people to understand the relationship between their course work and their ability to prosper in a life long career is vital."
Students who were selected to take part in this Expo had signed a pledge card at the beginning of the school year to remain drug free. The event was part of the celebration for fulfilling their commitment. With the understanding that the construction industry is a drug free industry, students were exposed to various skilled trade demonstrations. The demonstrations were provided by the Operating Engineers Local 324, Michigan Labors’ Training and Apprenticeship Institute, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Operative Plasterers’ and Cement Masons’ International Association Apprenticeship & Training Fund, Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters, Sprinkler Fitters UA Local 704, Sheet Metal Local 80, Bricklayers Local 1, and Energy Group Inc. Students also had the opportunity to explore the Roads, Bridges, and Tunnels exhibit as well as the many other exhibits provided by the Detroit Science Center and other industry groups. The groups included the Walbridge Joint Venture for Detroit Public Schools, and the MDOT TRAC Program. In addition, the Black Caucus Foundation of Detroit showed videos of skits performed by students regarding remaining drug free.
"This event was a true testament to the great partnerships and relationships that exist between the construction industry, the Black Caucus Foundation of Detroit, MDOT and DPS," Needham added. "The Michigan Design and Construction Coalition plans to make this an annual event for many years to come."
The Michigan’ Design and Construction Coalition is comprised of the following organizations:
American Council of Engineering Companies of Michigan
American Society of Civil Engineers Michigan Chapter
Asphalt Pavement Association of Michigan
Michigan CAT
Michigan Concrete Association
Michigan Infrastructure & Transportation Association
Michigan Laborers-Employers Cooperation & Education Trust Funds
Michigan Construction Career Council
International Union of Operating Engineers Local 324
Click here to view a few more photos from the event.
#30#