Workforce Development: 2021 Updates

2021 Scholarship Applications Now Available
Do you know a graduating high school senior looking to jump straight into a career within the residential construction industry? Or a student looking for additional education funds for after graduation? Scholarships are available!
  
Click here for additional information on Career Ready and Scholastic scholarships. Applications can be found here.
 


Matt Pittala from Staley High School received a Career Ready scholarship in 2020.
  
Pittala enrolled in a construction technology course at Northland Career Center (NCC) during his senior year.
  
“My biggest regret is that I did not enroll sooner in my high school career because it was through this course, and my teachers, that I realized I had an interest and talent for construction.” 
KC Home Work
Covid-19 forced Construction Science classes and other hands-on programs to adapt with little notice. KCHomeWork.com provides resources for those looking to learn more about entering the construction industry.
  

You will find information on training programs in your area, insight on average financial compensation for the skilled trades in the Kansas City area, and virtual resources, including our Workforce video series featuring:

Looking For Talent?
Graduating high school seniors in Construction Science programs and shop classes will be looking to jump into the field after graduation this May.
 
The KCHBA will be receiving public and student resumes throughout the semester. Are you hiring? Click here to receive candidate resumes via email.
 
The KCHBA Workforce Committee is also seeking volunteers to assist with mock interviews for students. Click here if you would like more information on how to get involved or to sign up.
 
Connect With Us on Social Media
KCHBA members: Are you involved in workforce development in your area? Share it with us on social!
  
Thank you to the KCHBA Workforce Committee
Chairman Drake Vidrine, NBKC
Tom Bickimer, Bickimer Homes
David Elliott, Construction Planning Services
Gretchen Evans, KC NARI
Vickie Fastnacht, Cornerstone Bank
Kevin Kirtley, K&E Flatwork
Greg Kudrna, Henges Insulation
Dustin Siebert, Kenny’s Tile
Shawn Woods, Ashlar Homes
 
What’s Next
Parade of Playhouses
The 2021 Parade of Playhouses will take place at Nebraska Furniture Mart, April 24-May 2. Four local schools will be entering five playhouses to be auctioned off. This is a great opportunity for career centers, as the project provides a cross departmental real world experience for their students- from design to the finished product. Participants are able to gain hands on experience while helping the community. Proceeds will benefit local charitable causes via the KCHBA Foundation Fund.
KC MADE
The Kansas City Manufacturing and Design Expo will look a bit different again this year due to Covid-19, but KCHBA is looking forward to a great event with Restoration Emporium! In early April, participants will be afforded the opportunity to display their projects at The RE: Crossroads for public viewing and voting.
Learn more about KC MADE here.
NEBA
The Northland Education + Business Alliance is an organization dedicated to bringing educational and industry stakeholders together to address workforce development in the Northland. The organization’s reach spans across the Kansas City region and is made up of thought leaders that continue to break barriers by creating innovative and inclusive educational events and opportunities. The KCHBA is actively engaged with this group and will provide information on event opportunities as they arise. 
Did you miss the 2020 Virtual Career Expo? Click here to watch the “Careers in Residential Construction” video or click here to read a summary. A great conversation featuring several KCHBA members!
Questions?

Courtney Reyes
816-733-2214
Director, Government Affairs &
Workforce Development
 
Jordynn Webster
816-733-2218
Manager, Government Affairs &
Workforce Development