Construction Rodeo draws 400 students to MTC

(Bradenton, FL—March 12, 2019) About 400 high school students from 12 high schools in Manatee and Sarasota counties participated in the Construction Rodeo at Manatee Technical College this morning, March 12, 2019. 

The Gulf Coast Builders Xchange (GCBX) and its members were the primary drivers for the event that exposed youth to career opportunities in construction.  According to GCBX executive director Mary Dougherty, careers in construction are in high demand as many in the current workforce retire and the economy is strong. 

Lakewood Ranch junior Laylen Garcia said she was interested in construction because “you can make good money;” her uncle is a builder, she said.  Other students said they were curious about the opportunities. 

Students participated in hands-on activities in MTC’s Carpentry, Electrician, HVAC, and Plumbing career certificate programs and Masonry Apprenticeship program.  This was the third annual Construction Rodeo.  The event alternates between MTC and Suncoast Technical College.  Sponsors for the event included: CareerSource Suncoast, DCS: Diversified Construction Safety, Bright Future Electric, Aqua Plumbing & Air, Everglades University, Symbiont Service Corp., Tab Glass & Window Corp., Commercial Electrical Systems, Bob Miller Masonry, Firmo Construction, RIPA and Associates, State College of Florida, Willis Smith Construction, Service Contracting Solutions, ME&S General Contractors, Sutter Roofing, Piper Fire Protection, Preferred Materials, and Atlas Insurance Group.