Tri-County Educator to Join AGC Externship

The commercial construction industry has been experiencing a workforce shortage since 2008. In response to the on-going challenge the Associated General Contractors of Massachusetts (AGC MA) has developed a non-traditional approach to the solution.

From August 15 - 19, AGC MA will host its second annual Building Advancement Externship (BAE) program for STEAM Educators and Academic Leaders to enrich understanding of the many professional career paths in commercial construction. Through this program AGC MA is establishing lasting relationships with participating externs to help them advocate for commercial construction as a highly rewarding career choice for their students.

This year's program attracted nearly eighty applicants from across the Commonwealth, from which 15 were selected to participate, including Mary-Ellen MacLeod, director of cooperative education, Tri-County RVTHS. The externship program is structured to correct long-standing misconceptions about construction. “Construction offers a wide range of well-paying jobs that require expertise in everything from virtual technologies and engineering to sustainability and energy efficiency efforts, marketing, management, and more,” says John Ferrante, CEO of AGC MA.

“The industry also has well-established and effective safety protocols. We’re thrilled by the opportunity to create awareness of the many opportunities in construction among academics who can provide informed guidance to their students,” added Ferrante. The week-long immersive program includes a study of the business of commercial construction, an overview of field training and safety programs, and in-depth information on project management and industry innovations. 

For more information, visit https://www.agcmass.org/agc-ma-building-advancement-externship/.