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Alaska Construction Career Day
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Opens the Door to Hands-On Career Exploration Contributed by The Department of Transportation & Public Facilities
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For many students, choosing a career path can feel overwhelming. While college is often presented as the only option, Alaska offers thousands of well-paying careers in the skilled trades — the same trades that build the roads, bridges, airports, and infrastructure that keep our state moving. To help students explore these opportunities, the Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities (DOT&PF) is hosting Alaska Construction Career Day on April 8 at Raven Hall on the Alaska State Fairgrounds in Palmer. The afternoon session is specifically open to homeschool students and families. The event schedule includes Anchorage and Mat-Su School District students from 8am to 1:30pm, and homeschool and rural students from 12pm to 3:30pm. Alaska Construction Career Day is not a typical career fair. Instead of simply walking past tables and brochures, students will have the opportunity to interact with professionals and explore trades through hands-on activities using real tools and equipment. Students may have the opportunity to explore areas such as welding; electrical wiring; carpentry; heavy equipment; mechanics and construc-
tion tools; and surveying and drilling. Industry professionals will be on site to demonstrate their work, answer questions, and help students better understand the training and career paths available in these fields. Representatives from construction companies, labor unions, apprenticeship programs, and training organizations will also be present. For homeschool students who may not always have access to traditional career exploration events, this event provides a valuable opportunity to experience these careers firsthand. Best of all, the event is completely free for students. Participants will receive safety gear — including a hard hat and other protective equipment — and lunch will be provided. Events like Alaska Construction Career Day help students see that there are many pathways to success, including skilled trades that offer strong wages, apprenticeships, and long-term career opportunities right here in Alaska. Homeschool families interested in attending are encouraged to register in advance. To register your student or learn more, contact Zhenia Peterson at 907-269-0844 or zhenia.peterson@ alaska.gov. Space is limited, and early registration is encouraged.
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