A remarkable milestone was celebrated in De Pere recently, as a local high school student embarked on an unconventional yet promising career path. Ray Fitzl, who is set to graduate from De Pere High School this month, has taken the bold step of signing up as a masonry apprentice with Miron Construction. This event marked not only the culmination of his academic journey but also the beginning of a hands-on career in construction. The ceremony highlighted the importance of vocational training and the growing need for skilled workers in the industry. With Fitzl's dedication and passion for construction, he aims to inspire others to explore similar opportunities.
Fitzl's decision to pursue a career in construction did not come without its challenges. At 17, he discovered his interest in the field, but initial doubts clouded his confidence. He expressed concerns about whether he could meet the demands of the job and contribute meaningfully to the projects. However, these apprehensions gradually dissipated as he gained more experience and support from his mentors at Miron Construction. Currently, Fitzl is involved in significant projects, including renovations at Denmark Elementary School and work at Preble High School. These experiences have been instrumental in shaping him into a competent craftsman.
The construction industry is facing a critical shortage of skilled labor, with nearly 276,000 job openings reported in November alone. Recognizing this gap, Miron Construction has implemented an apprenticeship program aimed at nurturing young talent. Dawn Grenzer-Stumpf, the Education Engagement Manager at Miron, emphasized the importance of engaging youth early in their careers. By offering hands-on experience and mentorship, the program helps build a pipeline of skilled workers. This initiative has seen unprecedented success, with 31 students participating in the youth apprenticeship program this year. Fitzl's story exemplifies how such programs can transform lives and address the workforce shortage.
Miron Construction's efforts to cultivate young talent are paying off, as evidenced by the increasing number of students like Fitzl joining the trades. His journey from a nervous high school student to a confident apprentice showcases the potential of vocational education. As Fitzl continues to develop his skills, he sets an inspiring example for others considering non-traditional career paths. The future looks bright for both Fitzl and the construction industry, thanks to initiatives that bridge the gap between education and real-world experience.
Witnessing Progress Despite Adverse Weather Conditions
Construction crews at Gompers Junior High School, located at 1501 Copperfield Avenue, have been diligently working through frigid temperatures and snowfall. This week, prefabricated walls for the school’s new gymnasium were successfully installed, showcasing the resilience and expertise of the construction team. The superintendent on-site, Chuck Bernhardt from Nicholas and Associates, highlighted the precision required to erect these massive wall panels, which weigh between 31,000 and 66,000 pounds each. Constructed with concrete and foam, these panels were carefully hoisted by cranes and secured into place, ensuring structural integrity.
Bernhardt noted that while the cold weather posed some challenges, particularly with starting vehicles, it did not significantly impact the overall schedule. "The crane didn’t want to start yesterday," he recalled, "but we managed to get it going by mid-morning." Despite the initial hiccup, the team remained confident about completing the gymnasium on time for the upcoming school year. The construction of the 13,000-square-foot facility is crucial, as it will allow students to use the space before demolition begins on the current gym to make way for the main building.
Innovative Construction Techniques Overcome Obstacles
The innovative use of prefabricated wall panels has been instrumental in maintaining the project’s momentum. Each panel, made from a combination of concrete and insulating foam, was designed off-site and transported to the location. Once on-site, the panels were lifted by cranes and meticulously placed onto steel plates embedded in the foundation. The process, while complex, ensures a faster and more efficient construction timeline. Bernhardt explained, "These panels are erected all the time, but this particular project has its unique challenges due to limited space."
Despite the tight schedule and challenging conditions, the team remains optimistic about meeting the August deadline. The next phase involves installing bar joists and metal framing for the roof, followed by the construction of block walls around the concrete structure. The stairwells and elevator shafts, already completed, will eventually connect the gym to the main school building. Bernhardt emphasized, "It’s a hectic schedule, but the team never gives me the easy ones."
Parallel Progress at Hufford Junior High
Simultaneously, construction at Hufford Junior High, situated at 1125 North Larkin Avenue, is also progressing smoothly. According to District 86 Director for Communications and Development Sandy Zalewski, the project benefits from ample available land, making it slightly easier to manage. The stairwells and much of the main office area have been completed, including a beam signed by the future first graduating class—a symbolic gesture connecting past and future students.
Zalewski noted, "They had more room over there, so that project was a little easier." The additional space allowed for less intricate sequencing and more straightforward construction processes. While the Gompers project faces spatial constraints, both sites are expected to be ready for the 2026-27 school year. Bernhardt joked about the comparative ease of the Hufford project, saying, "I’m a little jealous; they didn’t have a gym in their way."
A Vision for Tomorrow’s Education
The completion of these new facilities represents a significant investment in Joliet’s educational infrastructure. Superintendent Theresa Rouse underscored the importance of these projects, stating, "It is so exciting to see the walls going up." The new schools aim to provide modern learning environments that foster academic excellence and student well-being. As the structures rise, they symbolize a commitment to preparing students for the challenges of the future.
The district’s vision extends beyond the physical buildings, encompassing state-of-the-art classrooms, advanced technology, and flexible spaces that accommodate diverse teaching methods. The new gymnasium at Gompers, once completed, will serve as a hub for physical education and community events, enhancing the overall educational experience. Similarly, Hufford’s expanded facilities will offer enhanced opportunities for extracurricular activities and collaborative learning.
A landmark moment in Idaho's education sector was celebrated as Boise State University and Engineered Structures Inc. (ESI) initiated the construction of a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to construction management. This new building aims to expand Boise State’s capacity to train students for essential roles in Idaho’s rapidly growing construction sector. The project symbolizes a commitment to nurturing skilled professionals who will contribute significantly to the region’s development.
The construction management program at Boise State has witnessed an impressive 80% surge in student enrollment over the past six years, underscoring its popularity and relevance. Students gain invaluable hands-on experience through multiple internships with local contractors, ensuring they are well-prepared for the workforce upon graduation. With a 100% job placement rate, the program has produced over 1,200 graduates since its inception in 1978. Notably, the design team for this new building is entirely composed of women, highlighting the increasing diversity within the field. The structure will be the first on campus to utilize mass timber, showcasing sustainable building practices.
The new facility will serve as a hub for innovation and collaboration, offering cutting-edge classrooms, offices, meeting spaces, and laboratories. It will provide a dedicated space for students to engage in collaborative projects and access advanced construction technology. The building represents more than just bricks and mortar; it embodies the spirit of growth and excellence that defines Boise State’s construction management program. As Dr. Marlene Tromp, Boise State president, emphasized, the university plays a pivotal role in shaping resilient, creative, and intelligent individuals who will drive Idaho’s future forward. This project exemplifies how partnerships between academia and industry can create opportunities that benefit both students and the broader community.