When I heard the nightly news would have a feature on the return of shop classes to high schools, my interest was piqued. Listening to the report, it was refreshing to hear the students’ excitement for the good job opportunities that would be available to them after graduation. Apparently, the trades are a worthwhile career path after all!
Raising the Profile of Construction
Every person who reads this magazine can take steps that will improve the profile of, and respect for, the construction industry. Just think about it. Has your plant offered a tour lately, or ever? Are management or employees participating in the local community in any meaningful ways? Does your business sponsor any local activities or teams?
The construction industry, like many blue collar trades, is not always respected as a career path. What’s worse, they’re still seen as jobs for people who aren’t smart enough to do something better. But, we can help earn respect for our industry if we take actions that show our respect for it too. We don’t have to perpetuate the same negative stereotypes about our industry, and we can encourage a culture of excellence and quality in everything we produce.
Riding the Wave
The day after that nightly news broadcast, I received a marketing email for a new Henry rifle, the American Construction Industry Tribute Edition. As that email proclaims, “At Henry Repeating Arms, we know that America is built by hand—by the tradespeople who plan it, frame it, wire it, plumb it, paint it, and roof it. [This] rifle is our salute to the men and women who get the job done.” Although I do not automatically equate construction with hunting rifles, I was happy to see the promotion, complete with a hard hat on the stock. It was one more sign that respect is on the rise for the construction industry.
So, what will you do to show your respect for our industry? Whether you consider it a marketing gimmick or a way to give back, there are benefits to connecting with your community beyond setting your sights on sales goals only. You may not have the budget for 24-kt gold-plated artwork, but there are many ways that you can garner respect and recognition for your business and our industry.