Utah partnership connects youth to profitable careers through Big D Internship Program

In a bustling conference room filled with the energy of collaboration, representatives from Big-D Construction and the Utah Department of Workforce Services gathered to discuss an innovative initiative aimed at bridging the skills gap in the workforce. The focus of their conversation was the Youth Internship Program, a partnership designed to provide young individuals with valuable work experience while simultaneously addressing the pressing needs of employers in the construction industry.

One of the key highlights of the meeting was the program's structure, which offers a reimbursable wage for youth interns. This financial incentive not only eases the burden on employers but also encourages them to engage with a demographic that is often overlooked. As one representative noted, “This helps out a lot,” emphasizing the program's role in connecting businesses with eager young talent.

The discussion revealed a shared understanding of the challenges faced by the construction sector, particularly the difficulty in finding individuals with the right skills. “We have a skills gap,” one participant remarked, acknowledging the uphill battle to attract workers who are both qualified and motivated. The Youth Internship Program aims to tackle this issue head-on by providing a pathway for young people to explore careers in construction, a field often misunderstood as merely manual labor.

Through the program, Big-D Construction has successfully reached candidates they might not have encountered otherwise. The creation of a specific job title within the internship program has streamlined the application process, making it easier for potential interns to connect with the company. “It was really easy,” one representative explained, highlighting the straightforward nature of the partnership with the Department of Workforce Services.

The process of onboarding interns is efficient, typically taking just two weeks from interview to employment. This rapid turnaround allows businesses to quickly integrate new talent into their teams. The rewards of this initiative extend beyond mere numbers; it provides young individuals with a clear career path in a profitable industry. “A lot of people think that construction is just hammering, and that’s just not true,” one participant emphasized, aiming to reshape perceptions about the diverse opportunities available in the field.

As the meeting concluded, the representatives left with a renewed sense of purpose, committed to fostering a workforce that not only meets the demands of the construction industry but also empowers the next generation of workers. The Youth Internship Program stands as a testament to the potential of collaboration between government and industry, paving the way for a brighter future for both employers and aspiring young professionals in Utah.