At T.W. Frierson, we have identified the exploration of new talent pipelines as a key strategic objective. Career & Technical Education (CTE) partnerships with local high schools are the backbone of what we aim to accomplish through work-based learning. By actively engaging with local high schools through classroom visits, demonstrations, bringing in field leaders for hands-on experiences, and taking students on field trips to our sites, we strive to keep students interested in the trades and develop relationships with them early on.
We are excited to announce the launch of T.W. Frierson’s work-based learning program, a significant step in providing hands-on construction experience to high school students. This program offers students studying construction the chance to work full-time on one of our sites for six weeks during the summer, earning course credit through their high school.
This program is designed to offer students a unique opportunity to evaluate their career options before graduation. By gaining real-world experience on our construction sites, students can make more informed decisions about their future career paths. For T.W. Frierson, this initiative provides an excellent opportunity to identify future talent early in the recruiting process, ensuring we have a pipeline of skilled workers ready to join our team.
The first iteration of our work-based learning program is currently focused on one county. However, we have ambitious plans to grow the program to include multiple counties in the future. Our long-term vision includes developing comprehensive apprenticeship programs, with the work-based learning initiative serving as a feeder into these apprenticeships. This structured approach will ensure a seamless transition for students from classroom learning to practical, on-the-job training.
Investing in the education and training of young talent is not just about supporting their career growth; it is also about ensuring a skilled and prepared workforce for the future. By providing these valuable experiences, we are helping to bridge the gap between education and industry, creating a win-win situation for students and our company.
We look forward to seeing the positive impact this program will have on both the students and T.W. Frierson. Through initiatives like this, we are committed to building a stronger, more skilled workforce that can meet the challenges of tomorrow’s construction industry. Together, we can create a brighter future for our community and our industry.