Inspiring High-School Students from Around North America to Pursue Careers in Construction 

The event showcased the exciting ways in which robotics and digitalization are transforming the modern construction industry.  
 
The speakers, which included Turner’s Jennifer Downey, Director of ESG, and Innovation Manager, Kris Wahl shared practical examples with students of how robots and digital workflows are being used to build increasingly complex projects. Chris McKee, Reality Capture Manager, was also on hand to share how laser scanning, drones, and virtual reality, streamline mega-builds for companies like Meta.  
 
The students heard firsthand from Turner’s innovators what skillsets are required now, and in the future to pursue a rewarding career in construction. “The next generation of builders will be working with technologies we can’t yet imagine,” remarked Kris Wahl. “And we want to engage with students as early as possible to help them refine their skillsets to succeed in the future.” 
 
Echoing the same sentiment, Turner’s Community and Citizenship Director Kris Harrison sees youth engagement as being integral not only to Turner’s success, but that of the entire industry. “The shortage of skilled professionals in construction is a real challenge for our industry and a big reason why we host these types of outreach events, and work with organizations like the ACE Mentor Program of America (ACE) is to inspire students toward careers in our industry,” said Harrison. 
 
In addition to its Future of Construction webinar series, Turner, through its partnership with ACE promotes and sponsors various events and scholarship opportunities focused on igniting students’ passions for a career in architecture, construction and engineering.  
 
“We are grateful for Turner’s long-standing and consistent support for our program and many other like it. It is clear that not only is Turner committed to workforce development in the construction industry, but they are also committed to bettering the lives of young people in the communities that they serve,” remarked Stephanie Davi McNeely, MPA, CFRE, Director of Development and Strategic Partnerships, ACE Mentor Program of America  
 
With a keen eye towards the future, Kris Wahl concluded the inaugural Future of Construction webinar by reminding students the importance of staying curious and being continuous learners in a rapidly changing world.