Evans Construction outlines youth apprenticeship push; board hears update

Jeff Jepsen, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Evans Construction Company, told the board of education at an informal Sept. 2 meeting that his company is partnering with the district to expand youth apprenticeship opportunities in construction trades. Jepsen said Evans has signed work‑based learning agreements with four private employers, helped establish a new lab and classroom space at Windsor Forest High School and supported hiring two construction teachers there. “This is not about a job. This is about a career,” Jepsen said, describing a four‑year industry certification that he said will allow students to travel and work in many places. The presentation matters because district officials and employers said the skilled trades workforce is aging and local contractors report shortages. Jepsen said the…