More Than 100 Students Explore Construction Careers at Hands-On Showcase

ST. LOUIS, MO (October 28, 2026) - Local high school students explored opportunities in the skilled trades through hands-on activities and demonstrations during a two-day construction career showcase Oct. 21-22, hosted by Alberici and Andy Rice Trade Scholarship.

Held at Alberici's facility in north St. Louis, the event gave more than 120 students and educators firsthand experience in welding, concrete formwork and operating heavy equipment, including skid steer loaders and cranes. The event featured demonstrations from three Alberici divisions: self-perform construction, steel fabrication (Hillsdale Fabricators) and masonry (Leonard Masonry).

The showcase comes as construction employment continues to grow in the St. Louis region, creating opportunities for the next generation of skilled workers. According to the Associated General Contractors, the St. Louis metropolitan area added 11,200 construction jobs between August 2025 and August 2026, a 14% increase that ranked third nationally. A separate AGC of Missouri survey found that 92% of responding Missouri contractors reported difficulty filling hourly craft positions.

"This is our fourth year hosting this event, and we continue to see growing interest among high school students eager to explore the skilled trades," said Amber Rice, chair of the board of directors for Andy Rice Trade Scholarship. "What sets this event apart is the opportunity to work directly alongside industry leaders in small groups. Students ask questions, build connections and begin exploring their future career paths."

"As a former teacher, it's remarkable to watch students come alive in this environment - confident, engaged and excited about a future in the trades. It's equally rewarding to see teachers and counselors gain firsthand experience and a better understanding of how to guide students toward these career opportunities," said Rice.

"Attracting the next generation of construction and craft workers is important," said Makita Hill, inclusion and community engagement manager at Alberici. "These careers offer competitive wages, strong benefits and the opportunity to work on complex projects that make a lasting impact on our communities."

Alberici's local projects include the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park, a 425-acre safari park and conservation center under construction in north St. Louis County and scheduled to open in 2027.

The event brought together students and educators from nine area high schools, including Ladue Horton Watkins, Eureka, Parkway West, Parkway North, Parkway South, Union, Lift for Life Academy, Maplewood Richmond Heights and Webster Groves.