Detroit Construction Science Expo (CSE) welcomed more than 900 students to the Durfee Innovation Society on the city’s west side, showcasing career opportunities in skilled trades during Professional Trades Month.
Middle and high school students who pledged to maintain a drug-free lifestyle gained hands-on experience with construction equipment and engineering tools, while learning from industry leaders about the growing demand for skilled trade professionals.
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“We actually need boots on the ground to do the construction and so that’s why it’s vital right now to expose these kids into the various careers so that they’re ready to go when that time is here and it is upon us,” said Doug Needham, Executive Director of the Michigan Aggregates Association.
The annual event is put together by the Black Caucus Foundation of Michigan (BCFM). Dr. Shinese Johnson, director of school-based and community programs for BCFM emphasized the importance of early exposure to trade careers.
“Exposure brings experience, and so once they know that these skilled trades are out here and that they need to live a drug and violence-free lifestyle, they’ll have opportunities that opens doors to them.”
During the event, students rotated through various stations throughout the day, beginning with presentations led by Johnson. Students heard real life stories in the field of skilled trades and learned about projects happening in the state.
The expo also featured:
- Concrete jack hammering demonstrations
- Cement working stations
- Excavator operation training
- MDOT truck demonstrations
- Engineering technology exhibitions
The event comes as the state looks to fix our infrastructure. “The legislature right now are talking about having a long-term sustainable funding solution to fix our infrastructure,” said Needham. “Right now, they’re talking about a $3.1 billion package that is needed. When that comes into play, we’re going to need all hands-on deck.”
So far, the CSE has reached over 9,000 students over the 14 years through Detroit Schools’ “Navigations to Success” program.
“It gives them a positive factor that they can look forward to in building up their community, building up their families and building up their homes,” noted Dr. Johnson, highlighting the program’s broader impact on Detroit’s future.