Safety first! Then, a career!
Thirteen Arnold Elementary students participated in an afterschool club at the Arnold Community Learning Center which provided hands-on activities that really connected the kids with on-the-job experiences in road construction. Students were supplied with safety vests which were to be worn during the six-week program. They first learned work zone safety before participating in activities that helped them learn about pavement markings, concrete, structures, utilities and finally, heavy equipment.
The curriculum was developed and taught by members of The Associated General Contractors (AGC) – Nebraska Chapter. Working with the CLC, they piloted the club to focus on the basics of construction including simple plan reading and design and utilizing math skills and measurement. The AGC teachers also wanted to see how well students could lead and listen.
“The Arnold CLC Construction Club is a great example of how the Prosper Lincoln community agenda on employment skills is making an impact on the future workforce in Lincoln,” said Dayna Krannawitter, Arnold Community Learning Center’s School Community Coordinator. “Through our neighborhood work with the employment skills agenda, we were fortunate to make the connection with AGC and started talking about how we can help develop employment skills earlier for youth.”
“One of our strategic priorities is advocating for increased workforce in our industry,” said Katie Wilson, executive director of AGC-Nebraska Chapter. “We have been involved in various workforce development events which focus on high school students and their futures. We also need to be proactive and prepare the younger kids.”
Wilson hopes to continue the Construction Club at Arnold next winter but also envisions expanding. “My hope is for AGC members in other locations throughout