Clark’s Crafting Futures Event Supports Next Generation of Builders with In-Demand Career Paths and High-Paying Opportunities

On April 11, Clark joined forces with the Washington Commanders to host Crafting Futures, a skilled-trades tailgate event for local middle and high school students, parents, and educators to learn more about pathways to in-demand careers in the skilled trades. The dynamic, hands-on event took place at Northwest Stadium in Legends Plaza.

“The event was wonderful and made a huge impact on how my 13-year-old son sees his future,” one parent in attendance reflected. “This event was a great way to show him that there’s more to life after high school than just college. Actual hands-on ways to make differences in the world.”

Over the next decade, 2.6 million skilled workers (more than 30% of the current workforce) are set to retire, leaving a projected shortfall of 7.7 million skilled professionals.

Designed as a bridge between the classroom and the jobsite, Crafting Futures connects students to experiences and resources that broaden their awareness of the range of high-paying trade careers that don’t require a four-year college degree.

More than 800 students, parents, and educators from across the DC metropolitan region attended the event, which included a Skilled Trades Expo featuring 30 local employers and an Opportunity Zone with nearly 20 different education, industry, and youth-focused programs. There were also specialty activities, including a heavy equipment showcase, safety demonstration, and punchlist challenge.

“I really appreciate the time each person took to teach other kids and me how things are done in the workforce to encourage us to stay positive and live our dreams,” noted a student attendee.

A midday program featured remarks from Kris Manning, COO of Clark’s Infrastructure Group; Matt Haas, the Commanders’ Head of Construction; Aisha Braveboy, Prince George’s County Executive; and Maryland Congressman Glenn Ivey. Together, speakers highlighted a shared commitment to helping young people discover sustainable career opportunities that provide economic stability and the chance to shape their local community.

“Construction is the ultimate team sport. It takes plumbers, laborers, operators, electricians, and carpenters working in perfect sync to deliver a landmark like this [Northwest Stadium]. For anyone here willing to put in the work, this industry is wide open with opportunities for growth that you simply won't find anywhere else.”
Kris Manning, COO, Clark Construction Group

Participating Trade, Community, and Workforce Organizations

ABC Craftmasters Academy
ACE Carpentry
ACE Mentor Program of Greater Washington
AIW, Inc.
Berlin Steel
C3M
Carter CAT
CJ Coakley
Clark Concrete
Clark Construction
Clark Equipment Group
Clark Field Engineering
Clark Foundations
Clark Logistics
Clark Water
Construction and Building Trades Pathway
Construction Trades Workforce Initiative (CTWI)
Cornerstone Craftsman
DC Students Construction Trades Foundation
DOES/DC Infrastructure Academy
ISEC
IUOE Local 77 JATC
J Roberts
JCM Associates
Jefferson Millwork
JRB Carpentry
Justin Company, Inc.
Kirila Construction Services
Local 5 Ironworkers
Local 5 Plumbers
Local 602 Steamfitters
Manganaro
MC Dean
Montgomery College
Montgomery County Construction Trades Program
NAWIC Baltimore
NAWIC DC
Northern Virginia Community College
Phelps Academy
Prince George’s County Community College
Prince George’s County Public Schools CTE Department
Sales Solutions
Shapiro & Duncan
Shirley Contracting
SMART Local 100
SOME Center for Employment Training (CET)
UPO Building Careers Academy
Vetro Building Envelope
W.E. Bowers