In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the significant progress and future goals of the Careers in Construction program in Colorado, which aims to integrate vocational education into high schools and provide students with viable career paths in the construction industry. Marlo Asher, the newly appointed statewide director for the initiative, highlighted the program's mission to offer students alternatives to traditional college routes, emphasizing the importance of skilled trades.

The program, which began ten years ago with just 13 at-risk students, has expanded to include 84 high schools across Colorado, with a goal of reaching 100 schools by 2028. Currently, over 10,700 students have participated, and nearly 6,800 have earned certifications recognized by the Department of Labor. Asher noted that 20% of participants are young women, showcasing the program's commitment to inclusivity.

Key statistics presented included the issuance of approximately 4,000 OSHA 10 safety certificates and the deployment of over 1,500 students into the workforce. The program has garnered attention for its effectiveness, with 86% of surveyed students expressing readiness to enter the construction industry upon completion.

The meeting also addressed the ongoing need for skilled labor in the construction sector, with estimates indicating a shortage of 400,000 skilled tradespeople nationally. Asher and other officials emphasized the program's role in addressing this gap by providing students with hands-on experience and connections to potential employers.

Looking ahead, the program aims to further expand its reach and impact, with plans to partner with additional schools and industries. The collaborative effort between the Association of General Contractors and the Housing and Building Association of Colorado Springs was highlighted as a model for workforce development, demonstrating the potential for similar initiatives in other sectors.

As the meeting concluded, the importance of vocational education in shaping the future workforce was underscored, with officials expressing optimism about the program's trajectory and its contributions to the local economy.