Construction is one of Oklahoma’s largest industries, and it is only getting bigger. Gov. Kevin Stitt signed a proclamation declaring that October is Careers in Construction Month in Oklahoma and Pioneer Tech is joining in the celebration.
More than 82,000 Oklahomans work in construction, but more than 119,000 new jobs are expected to open in Oklahoma by 2026. In the entire country, an additional 1.4 million construction professionals will be needed by 2022.
A nationwide skills gap, however, means those construction positions may go unfilled. Pioneer Tech along with the Oklahoma CareerTech system is working to fill that gap with Construction Technology education.
“Oklahoma has a critical shortage of workforce in construction. The Kay County construction industry has difficulty finding employees, and this can affect bidding projects,” said Traci Thorpe, Superintendent/CEO of Pioneer Technology Center. “Pioneer Tech is training the next generation of this workforce right now. It’s truly a success path to the many career options in construction.”
Pioneer Tech’s Construction Technology program, led by James Kirkendall offers certifications in plan reading & elevations, hand and power tools, wall and ceiling framing, exterior finishing, drywall finishing, cabinet making trainee plus 35 more.
Careers in Construction Month was founded by the National Center for Construction Education and Research and Build Your Future to increase public awareness and inspire the next generation of construction craft professionals.
Photo caption: Pioneer Technology Center Construction Technology student Matthew Mayes, a PO- Hi senior is completing his construction project. Construction is one of Oklahoma’s largest industries, and it is only getting bigger. Gov. Kevin Stitt signed a proclamation declaring that October is Careers in Construction Month in Oklahoma and Pioneer Tech is joining in the celebration.