The Construction Zone at the NW Youth Careers Expo is always a big, loud and energetic place where students can learn about careers and apprenticeships while also trying out everything from 3D printers and virtual welding to hula hoops.

In the Construction Zone, students can talk with people who work at some of Portland’s leading construction and development firms, such as Hoffman Construction, Howard S. Wright and Walsh Construction. (Many of these firms are involved with the ACE Mentor Program, a 12-week, in-depth mentorship program for Portland metro-area students interested in exploring careers in architecture, construction and engineering. ACE will have a booth, too.)

Students can learn about how to land a paid apprenticeship, and other pathways into the skilled trades. Our exhibitors include the Pacific Northwest Carpenters Institute, the NECA-IBEW Electrical Training Center, the Sheet Metal Institute and Portland Community College.

Students can further explore educational paths to great engineering jobs. Oregon State University’s College of Civil & Construction Engineering will be at the Expo, as will the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.

SEE OUR FULL LIST OF EXHIBITORS

TEACHERS: FIND PRINTABLE EXPO FLYERS ON CONSTRUCTION AND OTHER SECTORS

Below is a photo gallery from last year’s Construction Zone. We’ll be adding more details about exhibitors as we receive them. (Exhibitors may contact us at susan@portlandworkforcealliance.org if you have additional information to share with students and educators prior to the Expo.)

So far, more than 6,500 students and 140+ exhibitors have registered for the Expo. Check out our “Meet our Exhibitors” page for additional printable flyers in technology, manufacturing, construction and creative careers. You can also visit our Expo HQ.

TEACHERS: BROWSE ALL EXPO RESOURCES FOR TEACHERS HERE

The nonprofit Portland Workforce Alliance works year-round with businesses in every sector to provide career-learning opportunities for high school students. Research shows that students who have the opportunity to learn about careers while they are in high school are more likely to graduate, continue their education and find satisfying careers. To learn more, browse our website.