Dozens of high school students from the South Bay dedicated their morning to exploring the field of construction in Lakeside. This experience opened up a world of future career opportunities for them.

"High School Students Discover the World of Construction and Its Career Potential"

Isabella Fimpel: A Junior's Journey in Construction

For Isabella Fimpel, being at a construction site is not a new thing. Her father is an electrician, and she has accompanied him on side jobs since she was young. She found it fascinating how electricity works in the house and how her father would fix the lights and switch the gas to electric. Today, however, something new awaited her - the opportunity to do the work herself, using her hands and performing actual tasks. As a junior at Chula Vista Learning Community Charter High, she is part of the Junior Achievement program that teamed up with Work Force Connect to provide students with hands-on experience in the construction field. This industry is in great need of younger interest as the median age of a construction worker is 50 years old. Debbie Barnum from Work Force Connect emphasizes the need for more kids to enter the construction trades and be aware of them. Students often only know what they are exposed to.Each group got to see a variety of aspects, rotating through different stations and trying out different jobs. Fimpel believes this gives students more options when it comes to future careers. It encourages girls to come and not be afraid to enter this industry. Moreover, it has given Fimpel a new level of appreciation for the work her father does. She now realizes how much effort he puts in every day and how tired he is because of his work. She values it more than ever before.

The Importance of Hands-on Experience in Construction

Hands-on experience is crucial in the construction field. It allows students to gain practical skills and a better understanding of the work. By rotating through different stations and trying out different jobs, students can explore their interests and determine if construction is a career path they want to pursue. This hands-on approach also helps to bridge the gap between theory and practice, making students more prepared for the real world. It shows them the different aspects of construction and the various skills required.For example, students may get to operate tools, learn about different building materials, and understand the construction process from start to finish. This not only gives them a sense of accomplishment but also helps them build confidence in their abilities. It shows them that they are capable of doing real work and that construction is not just a theoretical concept.

The Impact of Junior Achievement and Work Force Connect

The collaboration between Junior Achievement and Work Force Connect has had a significant impact on these high school students. It provides them with a unique opportunity to explore a field that they may not have been exposed to otherwise. Through this program, students gain valuable skills and knowledge that will benefit them in their future careers.It also helps to break down stereotypes and encourage more girls to enter the construction industry. By showing them that construction is a viable career option for them, it opens up new possibilities and empowers them to pursue their dreams. Additionally, it helps to address the aging workforce issue in the construction industry by bringing in younger talent.In conclusion, the morning spent exploring construction in Lakeside has been a transformative experience for these high school students. It has opened their eyes to new career opportunities and given them a taste of the construction world. With hands-on experience and the support of programs like Junior Achievement and Work Force Connect, these students are well on their way to building successful futures in construction.

In the heart of downtown Des Moines, a significant event has unfolded within the construction sector. A construction company, Ryan Companies, found itself at the center of a storm when allegations of sexual harassment and retaliation came to light. The company was hired for the construction of the new federal courthouse, and during a routine inspection by U.S. Department of Labor regulators, it was discovered that workers were subjected to such distressing behavior. Investigators have revealed that company officials were not only aware of these incidents but also participated in them. Moreover, employees had been complaining about illegal behaviors for years, yet it took time for the full extent of the situation to come to the surface.

Company's Response and Commitment

On Wednesday, the company released a statement, emphasizing their serious stance on allegations of harassment and retaliation. They are committed to maintaining a workplace where dignity and respect are the norm for every individual. When leadership became aware of the allegations, swift and appropriate action was promptly taken. Although the company disagrees with the conclusions in the Conciliation Agreement, they have agreed to the settlement to put this matter behind them. They are dedicated to complying with the terms of the agreement and fostering a culture where such behavior is never tolerated.

Impact on the Construction Site

The occurrence of these allegations has had a profound impact on the construction site. Workers who were victims of sexual harassment have faced emotional distress and a sense of violation in their work environment. The company's failure to address these issues promptly has led to a loss of trust among the workforce. However, the company's subsequent actions and commitment to change indicate a willingness to rectify the situation. It is crucial for construction companies to prioritize the well-being and safety of their workers and create an environment that is free from such harmful behaviors.

Lessons Learned and Future Prevention

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of having robust policies and procedures in place to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace. Construction companies must invest in training programs for their employees to raise awareness about harassment and provide them with the tools to report such incidents. Additionally, management should actively encourage a culture of openness and accountability, where employees feel comfortable coming forward with their concerns. By learning from this experience, Ryan Companies and other construction firms can work towards creating a more inclusive and respectful work environment for all.Get the latest headlines from KCCI by downloading the free KCCI app: Apple | Google Play. Stay informed and be part of the movement towards a safer workplace.