CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — More than 1,300 middle and high school students from 55 schools across eastern Iowa rolled up their sleeves and tried their hands at real-world construction tasks during the 5th Annual Eastern Iowa Build My Future Construction Career Day on Tuesday at Hawkeye Downs. The immersive event, hosted by Future Builders of Iowa and supported by Iowa Workforce Development, aimed to introduce students in grades 7 through 12 to career paths in skilled trades.

Unlike traditional career fairs, this event emphasized hands-on learning, allowing students to engage directly with tools, equipment, and trade professionals. As the demand for skilled labor continues to outpace supply, initiatives like Build My Future are becoming more vital in connecting youth to high-demand sectors.

Amy Pearson, Future Builders of Iowa Workforce Development Director, emphasized the event’s practical value:

“We have over 1300 students today that are exploring different career paths, and all these jobs are available right here in eastern Iowa. We're actually test-driving careers here today. They're not just walking around getting literature. They're getting some of that, but they're actually using their hands and trying different things that people do on an actual construction site.”

With the rising cost of higher education and a growing awareness of alternatives to four-year degrees, programs like Build My Future offer young people a tangible introduction to professions in construction, manufacturing, IT, and other trades critical to Iowa’s economy. Organizers said many students left the event surprised and inspired by the variety of well-paying career opportunities that don't require a college diploma.

The event also helped address the skills gap that contractors and builders increasingly face, particularly as seasoned workers retire. Students could explore plumbing, HVAC, welding, electrical work, masonry, heavy machinery operation, and more—all while meeting potential employers and local trade school representatives.

Pearson added that the goal is not just awareness, but long-term interest:

“They’re learning what kind of training, wages, and working conditions they can expect. We want them to see that these are respected, essential careers that offer solid futures—right here in their communities.”

As workforce shortages persist in key infrastructure sectors, Eastern Iowa's commitment to early education in the trades may help secure the next generation of builders, technicians, and operators who will keep the region growing.

Originally reported by Garrett Heyd in CBS 2 Iowa.