The Arizona Builders Alliance‘s “SkillsUSA Region 6 Construction Competition” showcased the talents of more than 140 Southern Arizona high school students on Friday, Feb. 7, at Catalina High School in Tucson. From 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m., student builders put their construction skills to the test across seven trade categories, with industry professionals serving as judges.

The event offered a unique glimpse into the future of the construction workforce, highlighting the growing interest in trade careers among the younger generation.

Gilbert Maldonado, Program Manager at Arizona Builders Alliance, says through the annual competition, ABA exemplifies the power of industry partnerships in shaping vocational education and changing perceptions of trade careers among students and parents alike. “As the construction industry continues to grapple with worker shortages, events like this serve as a crucial pipeline for talent recruitment and development.”

Donning hard hats and full safety gear, students demonstrated their abilities in plumbing, wall construction, cabinet making, and electrical wiring. This hands-on competition not only allowed participants to showcase their skills but also addressed the ongoing construction labor shortage by creating direct pathways to industry careers.

The ABA is the top trade association for contractors in Arizona that exists to make its 380

member companies and the construction industry more prosperous through education,

networking, business development, and advocacy on the state and federal level.

The ABA is an alliance of the Associated Builders & Contractors and the Associated General Contractors of America – Building Chapter. Celebrating its 30th year in 2024, the ABA is proud to service the construction industry through advocacy, education, and networking opportunities in the state of Arizona.

For more information, visit www.azbuilders.org or call 602-274-8222.