Students Dive into Trades at F&S Tour

By Jalynn Bugaj
F&S customer relations & communications intern

Local high school students had the opportunity to immerse themselves in a day in the life of tradespeople, giving them a firsthand look at potential future careers.

The students, representing eight local school districts, toured F&S shops such as the mill, insulators, plumbers and pipefitters, painters, and electricians. The Summer Construction Program, part of the “Education for Employment (EFE) System #330,” allows high school juniors and seniors to learn construction-related skills through classroom presentations and structured lab time.

In the shops, professionals and forepersons discussed their passion for crafts and trades, frequently mentioning family ties to the industry. These roles generally don’t require a bachelor’s degree and can offer an attractive salary and lifestyle. Although the work is demanding, it is incredibly fulfilling.

EFE #330 administers the Early College and Career Academy on the campus of Parkland Community College. The Summer Construction Program, run by EFE #330, first began in 2010 and has had over 295 students participate since then.

“The main goal of the program is to get students interested in hands-on careers within the crafts and trades as many students are looking for careers and good paying jobs that don’t necessarily require a college degree,” said Ken Buenting, construction program coordinator.

Through the program, students gain valuable on-site experience, visit trade union halls, and learn how to apply for a union apprenticeship. They also earn high school credit and receive an educational stipend.

Attracting Students from Local High Schools

This year, the program interviewed and selected 18 students from eight different school districts including Villa Grove, Fisher, Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley, Mahomet-Seymour, Rantoul, St. Joseph-Ogden, Champaign Central, and Champaign Centennial, to participate in the Summer Construction Program.

Thirty-nine students submitted applications for the program, which required completing an application, submitting a resume, writing an essay stating why they should be selected, and participating in an oral interview. Buenting said, “We treat the program similarly to a job application and interview to give students real-life experiences.”

Out of thirty-nine applicants, eight were females, marking the highest number of total and female applicants. Four women were selected to participate in the program. “Regardless of your background or gender, everyone brings something to the table,” said Buenting. “This doesn’t have to be a male dominant field.”

Evelyn Hernandez, second from left

“Females make the class not only more enjoyable for the students, but for the instructors also,” added Buenting. He highlighted that having more women in the trades opens up new avenues and provides a valuable opportunity to broaden the pool of candidates.

One female student, Evelyn Hernandez, firmly believes that women play a crucial role in the trades. “I don’t get intimidated easily. I’ve always been in activities where there are more men than women. As a female, I like to show that we can do everything they can do,” said Hernandez.

Learning While You Work

During their visit, the students were also given practical demonstrations of various trades. They tried their hand at pipefitting and electrical work, under the supervision of seasoned professionals. These experiences were designed to give students a real taste of what it’s like to work in these fields, sparking interest and enthusiasm.

The program also included a discussion about safety protocols, and the critical role safety equipment and procedures play in the trades.

Will Corum, electrician sub-foreman, encourages students to pursue their interests with diligence. “You need to constantly push your boundaries and comfort zones. Don’t view the commitment as a large chunk of time, but as smaller, manageable blocks,” said Corum.

Corum, who has been an electrician for 35 years, says he wouldn’t change a thing about his career. “You really need to be willing to apply yourself and have basic commitment, but it’s not factory work, you get that variety. Your work always stays fresh.”