Build My Future 2025

Why Builders & Associates Members Should Get Involved

8/25/2025

Deadline: Register as an exhibitor, sponsor, or both by August 22, 2025!

The construction industry is facing a critical shortage of skilled workers, and your involvement in Build My Future Central Ohio can help change that. This one-day, hands-on event connects high school students directly with the people and careers that make up our industry, like you, our members!  

“It’s as if there are many stars in the sky, and none of them connect, we want them to all connect and form a constellation. By introducing schools and students to our industry professionals, we can make those connections!” Ann Misiolek, Workforce Development Advisor for the Construction Industry, Workforce Development Co-Chair for the BIA/NARI.

Why Your Participation Matters:

• Inspire the Next Generation: Spark interest in construction careers among high school students and show them the range of opportunities available.
• Showcase Your Expertise: Highlight your company’s unique offerings and attract talented young professionals who are eager to learn and grow. 
• Invest in Industry Growth: Help build the pipeline of skilled workers our region needs.
• Give Back Locally: Provide mentorship and career guidance to students in our community.
• Build Your Network: Connect with other industry leaders to share best practices, exchange ideas, and build lasting relationships. 

About the Event: 

Build My Future Central Ohio is a free, one-day event for 10th–12th grade students.
When: October 1, 2025 | 9 AM – 3 PM
Where: Franklin County Fairgrounds, Hilliard

Students will rotate through interactive learning labs where they can try hands-on activities in a variety of trades and specialties, including:

• Roofing: Learn the art of installing, repairing, and maintaining roofs. 
• Tiling: Master the techniques of laying tiles for floors, walls, and countertops. 
• Excavating: Explore the world of heavy machinery and understand the process of preparing land for construction. 
• Landscaping: Uncover the beauty of creating outdoor spaces through design, planting, and maintenance. 
• Welding: Learn the skill of joining metals together using heat and pressure. 
• Carpentry: Develop your woodworking skills and learn to build structures and furniture. 
• Electrical: Gain knowledge of electrical systems and wiring. 
• HVAC: Understand the principles of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. 
• Design: Explore the creative world of architectural and interior design. 
• Window Installation: Learn the techniques of installing windows for energy efficiency and aesthetics. 
• Flooring: Discover the various types of flooring materials and installation methods. 
• Architecture: Understand the principles of building design and planning. 
• Masonry: Master the art of constructing structures using stone, brick, or concrete (both interior and exterior). 
• Exterior Cladding: Learn about various materials and techniques used to cover the exterior of buildings. 
• Interior Finishes: Discover the skills involved in completing the interior of a building, including finish trim, painting, and appliance installation. 

Be a part of interactive learning labs that showcase the exciting and diverse world of construction. Students will gain valuable hands-on experience in a wide range of skilled trades, and your work could be the one that inspires their future career path.

How to Get Involved with Build My Future:

• Register Your Company as a Sponsor/Exhibitor: Deadline August 29.
• Volunteer Your Time: Guide students through labs, answer questions, and offer mentorship.
• Encourage Student Participation: Encourage students and schools to attend through your networks.

By participating in these interactive labs, students not only gain valuable knowledge and skills but also have the opportunity to connect with industry professionals. Network with experts in their field of interest and potentially discover new career paths. 

Let’s bridge the gap between the construction industry and the future workforce! Join us on October 1st from 9 AM to 3 PM at the Franklin County Fairgrounds in Hilliard to be a part of this exciting initiative and help shape the future of Central Ohio’s workforce. Together, we can show Central Ohio students that they have a variety of options when it comes to building their futures. 

Watch last year’s Build My Future Central Ohio event recap.