A Special Note to Counselors
As educators, we certainly understand the importance of training beyond high school and the value of higher education. That being said, we are fooling ourselves if we think that college is appropriate for ALL students. There are many students who do not have the money for college, who do not have the desire to go to college, and who enjoy working with their hands and seeing the fruits of their efforts! There ARE other avenues! Community colleges, trade schools, apprenticeships, and certificates are all evidence of higher learning and are all available to qualified students. Also, as educated professionals, we understand that just because somebody goes to college and possibly goes deep into debt to do so; there is no guarantee that they will find employment in their field of study.
The following video outlines the need for skilled labor throughout construction.
Potential Student Identifiers
Students who do well in construction related careers are typically:
- Kinesthetic Learners (learn best hands-on)
- Personable and Outgoing
- Hard Working
- Often on Sports Teams
- Reliable
- Have Great Attitudes
Success Indicators
As a cluster, we have also gone into more depth and have developed a list of Success Indicators. These are traits or skills that a young student may possess that are a real benefit for them as they enter our classes. Although we do not have any prerequisites for entering our cluster, consider some of these points when counseling a student who displays an interest in our programs. These are really the skills that a student should possess as they leave us and enter the workforce. This is what we teach and preach.
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Personal Skills
Great Attitude Professionalism Good Attendance Dependability |
Thinking Skills
Good Problem Solving Ability Ability to Locate Information Ability to Make Sound Decisions Ability to Think Critically |
Work Ethic
Motivated Productive Ability to Self Manage Ability to Work in Any Conditions |
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Academic Skills
Proficient in Math Proficient in Reading Proficient in Writing Proficient Computer Skills |
Soft Skills
Polite Respectful Display Integrity Ability to Work in Teams |
Work Skills
Dress Industry Appropriate Wear Required Safety Equipment Be Prepared with Personal Tools Ability to Climb Ability to Lift and Carry |
