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JOBS, not crime. Future generations want hope and the promise of a good career!

It was great to attend the Construction Career Development Initiative’s (CCDI) March 9th Saturday Academy session. CCDI is a program close to my heart and actively works to bring diversity to the design and construction industry via mentorship and career development opportunities.

We toured Clayco’s future St. Louis headquarters, where I enjoyed getting to know the awesome students who came to learn about my journey as Clayco’s founder and gain insight into the world of building. I was happy to share my story, as I went to school where they went to school. Without a college degree, I came up through the trades and wanted to instill in them the importance of going BEYOND and giving back to community endeavors in everything they do. This was my first event since my gluteus medius tendon tear, and my irrational optimism is stronger than ever! 

One of my key messages is spreading the significance of surrounding yourself with good people and always improving yourself through reading and new experiences. Some students should go the college route, and others can have just as much success in the trades.

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If there is ever any question about whether the CCDI gets the job done when it comes to helping people realize their full potential, then the several CCDI alums working for subcontractors on Clayco’s St. Louis office can put it to rest. CCDI Alumni are the secret sauce to keeping the up-and-coming students optimistic about their future. They made an appearance on our site tour, giving students firsthand experience in daily duties and inspiring them to follow their own paths.   

Representation matters just as much as offering resources and support to underserved communities does. Economic Development is the answer to many community problems. All businesses should work together to create real and sustainable opportunities across the entire region. 

Through CCDI, we aim to keep building the foundations for change to facilitate a more inclusive and diverse industry that is able to create next-level communities. The program has been spread to Charlotte, Chicago, and Phoenix – LA and other market sectors are coming next. 

Let’s keep it going!

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