APEX Investor Members Support ISD 709 Construction Technology Program

Duluth, Minnesota: The Area Partnership for Economic Expansion (APEX) and several APEX investor-members are pleased to support ISD 709’s Construction Technology program. The Boldt Company, APi Group, Inc., United Piping, Inc., The Jamar Company and Northland Constructors donated much-needed cold weather work gear and safety equipment to the Construction Technology program.

“When the district reached out to APEX, we were more than happy to get involved,” said Sandy Johnson, Manager, Member Relations and Administration at APEX. “Many APEX investor-members seized the opportunity to support the next generation of trades workers.”

This fall, students in the Construction Technology program have been working in collaboration with Lake Superior College’s College Construction Program to build a home in the Duluth area. The high school students are responsible for building the garage. After the structure is finished, students may have the opportunity to observe professional trades workers complete additional work such as plumbing, electrical, painting and more.

The hands-on experience is essential for providing students with real-world working experience, but as temperatures dropped, conditions became unsafe. Despite the cold weather, the students didn’t want to leave their project unfinished.

“Our students work in the elements each afternoon and needed to be equipped with proper cold weather attire,” explained Brad Vieths, Vocational Program Coordinator for ISD 709. “We couldn’t risk exposure, so we reached out to APEX for help. We were simply blown away by the response.”

Together, The Boldt Company, APi Group, Inc., United Piping, Inc., The Jamar Company and Northland Constructors donated the following items:
 

• 14 Cold Weather Jackets

• 14 Cold Weather Bibs

• 36 Cold Weather Gloves

• 24 Safety Glasses

• 12 Cold Weather Hats

Now, with appropriate cold-weather gear, the students can continue their work – and the generous donations will be used for years to come. The Construction Technology program has devised a check-out system to ensure all students can access the gear they need.

“Our region is experiencing a shortage of young people entering the trades, and many local companies have good paying positions waiting to be filled,” said Brian Hanson, APEX President and CEO. “The district’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs are important in introducing students and their families to very attractive career options in the trades. It’s a win for everyone: students, parents, local companies and the region as a whole.”

The Construction Technology program has been part of the district’s CTE initiative for more than 20 years. Designed to provide alternative, hands-on learning opportunities, CTE students can gain experience in a variety of industries and trades. To learn more about the district’s CTE offerings, please visit the CTE Website.

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About APEX
The Area Partnership for Economic Expansion (APEX) is the private-sector led business development engine for northeast Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin. APEX investor-members represent some of the most influential companies in the region, with a collaborative approach to promoting sustainable economic growth. APEX attraction, expansion and retention efforts focus in areas including aviation, manufacturing, professional services and next generation forest products. Since 2003, through attraction, expansion and retention efforts, APEX has impacted over 4,020 jobs in the region, resulting in an annual regional payroll of over $164 million and contributing to over $22 million in state and local taxes annually. For more information, visit www.APEXgetsbusiness.com.