OATC Students Gain Real-World Insight Through Mock Job Interviews

By Jeanene Dunn

At the Olathe Advanced Technical Center (OATC), students aren’t just learning about construction technology—they’re building their futures, one nail and handshake at a time.

Each year, during Mock Interview Day, students in OATC’s Construction Technology program meet with local industry professionals to practice the communication and career-readiness skills that will soon launch their careers.

Interviews that Build More Than Résumés

Real-world practice helps students develop confidence and essential soft skills. The event, which KCHBA staff participated in, gives students a realistic, supportive environment to strengthen their communication and professionalism.

“We want students to walk away feeling encouraged,” said Jordynn Webster, KCHBA’s Director of Community Relations. “These interviews aren’t about catching them off guard. They’re about preparing them. Some students even gain internship offers or job leads as a result.”

After each session, students receive personalized feedback on everything from posture and eye contact to handshake and clarity. “The feedback helps students see what went well and what they can improve before their next interview,” Webster said. “It’s one of the most valuable parts of the experience.”

She added that the benefits go far beyond job preparation. “The ability to make eye contact, introduce yourself confidently and speak professionally are skills students will use in any career. Those soft skills are what make them stand out.”

Training That Goes Beyond the Classroom

OATC Construction Technology instructor Dave Pfortmiller has led the program since 2017 and has helped shape it into a pathway that prepares students for both immediate entry into the workforce and continued education.

“We’re teaching not only technical skills like framing, roofing and electrical work, but also the soft skills that make a difference: communication, professionalism and confidence,” Pfortmiller said. “The goal is to give students real-world experience and connections before they graduate.”

Through OATC’s two-year Construction Technology program, students master the fundamentals of construction while also learning how to communicate effectively and present themselves as emerging professionals.

Students Gain Confidence and Career Direction

Second-year student Andrew Urban said the experience helped him better understand what employers look for.

“It was a great way to practice how to present myself,” he said. “They gave honest feedback on things like body language, eye contact and how to answer questions. It felt real.”

Urban, who grew up working on home projects with his family, said OATC’s program confirmed his passion for the trades. “I’m planning to work in the field for a while and maybe go into construction management later.”

First-year student Kolby Popp described the day as inspiring and affirming. “The interview day was amazing,” he said. “I got to meet a lot of industry people and learn about possible job opportunities. It’s nice being able to do that at such a young age.”

Popp, who plans to go into electrical work, said the experience solidified his aspirations. “My grandpa and I have done projects around the house, and I find it really interesting. It was also great talking with the ladies from Faith Technologies Institute. They have a summer program and a four-year apprenticeship that sounds amazing.”

Building Bright Futures in the Skilled Trades

For Pfortmiller and his students, Mock Interview Day represents more than a single event—it’s part of OATC’s broader mission to show young people that skilled trades offer a path to stability, success and pride.

“Next year, the Olathe Innovation Center will open,” he said. “I’m very excited that we’ll have a larger workspace to serve more students.”

The new 138,000-square-foot facility, scheduled to open in January 2026, will replace the current OATC building and create even more opportunities for the next generation of builders to learn, grow and lead.