Madison Reporter

During a career fair in Janesville earlier this month, students from across southern Wisconsin were able to learn about the various opportunities available in the construction industry. 

“It’s also still the old fashioned hard work, but there’s a lot of talented and very smart people that go into building today’s modern buildings," said Joe Schwengels, a coordinator at the job fair.

According to NBC 15, JP Cullen held its sixth career fair for hundreds of students from Janesville, Edgerton, Beloit and other areas to learn about what the industry has to offer and raise awareness for opportunities in the trades. Students learned about the industry through mock-ups, hands-demonstrations and by speaking with apprenticeship recruiters from local trades unions.

In the story, Schwengels talked about the stigma that surrounds construction jobs and the struggle to attract young talent to the industry. The event was designed to dispel some of the common misconceptions about the industry and show young people the benefits of working in construction. 

Schwengels said that students who do choose to complete a four-year apprenticeship in Wisconsin will receive 60 credits toward an associate’s degree, according to NBC 15.