MORRIS PLAINS, NJ — For the first time, New Jersey will host the nationally recognized Build My Future event, a hands-on construction career showcase designed to spark student interest in the skilled trades. The inaugural Build My Future – Metro NJ will take place on October 15, 2025, at Franklin Elementary School’s Meeker Street Pavilion in Succasunna.

The event, organized by the Metropolitan Builders & Contractors Association of New Jersey (Metro BCA), is expected to welcome more than 520 high school students from 12 schools across Morris, Essex, Union, Warren, Hunterdon, Somerset, and neighboring counties. Participants will take part in over 25 interactive learning labs, offering immersive experiences in carpentry, roofing, electrical work, cabinetry, plumbing, architecture, and more.

“We’re thrilled to bring this nationally recognized program to New Jersey for the first time,” said Dane Rohmann, Chair of the Build My Future planning committee. "We in the industry recognize that not all roads lead to college. Our intent is to offer these kids a visual experience in hopes they will entertain a career within the Trades. This comes at a very crucial time when more seasoned professionals are retiring, and not enough support is coming in to fill the gap. If we do not do something to promote careers in The Trades, costs of home improvement will skyrocket, and quality craftsmanship will be a thing of the past."

The event is supported by Jaeger Lumber, a longtime leader in the state’s building supply industry, serving as the major sponsor.

As the host organization, Metro BCA represents the homebuilding, remodeling, and light commercial construction industries across Northern and Central New Jersey. Beyond advocacy and professional development, the association has made workforce development a top priority—recognizing the urgent need to attract new talent to fill the construction industry pipeline.

The Metro BCA Workforce Development Committee, made up of educators, contractors, and industry leaders, played a key role in bringing the event to life. Members include Frank Caccavale (Roxbury High School), Geraldine Smith (All Inclusive Construction & Building), Abiola Amusan (AV Luxury Design), Jason Bonura (Cedar Contractors Group), Dane Rohmann (Exceptional Flooring Concepts), Tez Roro (Keller Williams, Suburban Realty), and Wendy Scott (Timeless Closets & Cabinetry).

Wendy Scott, Chair of the Workforce Development Committee, emphasized the team effort behind the milestone event:
“A huge thank you goes to Frank Caccavale for securing this year’s location and managing the many logistical details behind such an important program. With 520 students from 12 schools already confirmed, this is a tremendous endeavor. The energy and commitment of our committee demonstrate that this event is more than just a day—it’s a movement for the future of our industry.”

Michele Leppard, Executive Officer at Metro BCA, added that the impact goes beyond one-time participation:
“Sparking interest in construction careers is critical for the health of our industry. We’re grateful to all of our exhibitors, sponsors and ambassadors for stepping up and helping us create an event that could change the trajectory of a student’s life.”

Event Details

• Date: Wednesday, October 15, 2025
• Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM (Lunch provided)
• Location: Franklin Elementary School, Meeker Street Pavilion, 8 Meeker Street, Succasunna, NJ
• Audience: High school students and educators (Event at capacity)
• Activities: Hands-on trade demonstrations, interactive equipment operation, and skill-building labs led by local professionals

For more information, visit www.metrobca.org.

Originally reported by Michaelle Bradford in Wood Working network.