Miron Construction Hosts Career Signing Day for 24 Future Trades Professionals

Miron Construction, one of Wisconsin’s largest contractors, recently celebrated the next generation of skilled tradespeople during a special career signing day event at its Neenah headquarters. The company honored 24 young adults who are either launching youth apprenticeships, starting full-time registered apprenticeships, continuing their training, or officially joining the workforce.

In a time when the construction industry is grappling with a labor shortage — with more than 459,000 roles unfilled across the U.S. as of November 2023, according to the Associated Builders and Contractors — companies like Miron are investing heavily in outreach and development programs aimed at high school and college graduates.

The signing day event was both ceremonial and practical. Participating students shook hands with Miron representatives and union trainers, solidifying their entry into career pathways that include hands-on work experience, union support, and classroom instruction.

Company officials noted that these apprenticeships mark the start of long-term opportunities. “High school and college graduates officially started employment with a contractor who will sponsor them throughout their registered apprenticeship and give them on-the-job training,” said Miron. “Registered apprentices will also learn in the classroom at their designated union training center as part of the program.”

Students from Hortonville High School, Menasha High School, Little Chute High School and other northeast Wisconsin schools were among the new hires.

Five of the new registered apprentices have joined the North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters, and one signed with the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 139. In addition, nine new youth apprentices will begin their placements later this summer and will continue working throughout the 2025–26 school year.

Miron has seen its investment in youth apprenticeships pay off with significant growth in participation. “In the last two years, Miron’s youth apprenticeship program grew more than 89% and extended to the company’s satellite offices,” the company stated.

The company’s strategic focus on early workforce development comes at a crucial moment. As construction costs rise and seasoned workers retire, the need to train and retain skilled workers has become paramount for contractors across the Midwest. Wisconsin unions and contractors alike are stepping up efforts to appeal to younger generations — not just through job opportunities but with programs that offer structured training, support, and a pathway to upward mobility.

Building Careers and Community

Events like this one are becoming increasingly important in reshaping public perceptions about the skilled trades. By creating a moment of recognition similar to athletic scholarship signings, contractors are sending a message that careers in construction are not only viable but deeply respected and necessary.

Career signing days also offer young adults a clear vision for their future. Many of these apprentices will earn while they learn, gaining field experience under seasoned mentors while progressing through state-recognized apprenticeship programs. With union support, they’ll also receive benefits and job security that are often out of reach in other entry-level career paths.

Looking Ahead

As these 24 young adults step into a new phase of their careers, Miron and its union partners are ensuring that the workforce of tomorrow is equipped, empowered, and enthusiastic about what lies ahead.

Originally reported by Ethan Duran in The Daily Reporter.