Black Caucus Foundation and Industry Leaders Ignite Interest in Construction Trades Among 800+ Detroit Students at the 13th Annual Expo

Over 800 curious and determined students from Detroit Public Schools and nearby districts recently got a firsthand look into the world of engineering and skilled trades at the 13th Detroit Construction Science Expo. Hosted at the Durfee Innovation Society by the Black Caucus Foundation of Michigan, this annual event united passionate industry leaders and lawmakers to illuminate career opportunities for the next generation of builders and innovators. Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, Rep. Kimberly Edwards, and Rep. Donavan McKinney were among the prominent lawmakers engaging with students. They shared inspiration, spoke about the diverse paths available in the trades, and marveled at the students’ enthusiastic participation in interactive activities. Here, young minds could pilot drones, design intricate structures, and master heavy machinery like excavators and cranes, all under the mentorship of over 60 industry experts. For over a decade, this Expo has woven a legacy of empowerment and practical knowledge into the fabric of Detroit, reaching into Lansing last fall to spread its message of opportunity even further. Doug Needham, President of the Construction Science Expo, articulated the urgent need for more skilled workers: “The need continues to grow. We need individuals actually doing the work and design. This industry...