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AGC - Sponsors, Partners, & Volunteers - Oh My!
The strength and effectiveness of the AGC lies with the commitment and involvement of sponsors, partners, and volunteers. From the boardroom to committees to industry-related events, the support of our members in volunteer roles is vital. As an association, we are blessed to have individuals, firms, and groups who give their time, expertise, monies, and resources to make the construction industry the best it can be in our region.
The strength and effectiveness of the AGC lies with the commitment and involvement of sponsors, partners, and volunteers. From the boardroom to committees to industry-related events, the support of our members in volunteer roles is vital. As an association, we are blessed to have individuals, firms, and groups who give their time, expertise, monies, and resources to make the construction industry the best it can be in our region. For example, as a part of the solution to the workforce shortage, the Tech Center Student of the Week program was initiated seven years ago by just four AGC member sponsors. They understood the importance of the program to highlight the value of skilled trades, improve the image of our industry, and connect AGC firms with future employees. Today, a total of 28 AGC members annually sponsor this program. Coverage has expanded from The Paducah Sun to WPSD-TV to the regional Vue magazine and is being promoted in digital media news through the West Kentucky Star and weekly radio slots on Willie 102 and NewsTalk 94.3. Parents, educators, students, and the public have been made aware of the high school tech programs (Carpentry, Electrical, Welding, Plumbing, Auto Tech, and Machine Tooling) being offered in our region and the quality students they are producing for our workforce. For the students, it has created a connection point with our members to be hired full-time upon graduation.
Partnerships provide a means of working together to achieve success for all parties involved. A key partnership has existed between the AGC and the Murray State University Construction Management program for over 40 years. AGC and the Construction Management program have worked together to recruit students to the program, provide scholarships for students, support faculty with job site visits or industry speakers, provide internship and employment opportunities for students, and participate on advisory committees to keep the program current with industry changes. This partnership has led to record enrollment within the construction management program and has helped AGC firms maintain or grow their businesses through this valuable feeder program. Partnerships are a win-win for everyone.
AGC volunteers primarily give their time and expertise to pass on knowledge and skills obtained over their work life to the next generation. We see AGC member volunteers doing just that by being involved with SkillsUSA competitions, Construction Career Day, Scout Day, K-12 career days, Mock Bid Day, advisory committees, industry/business related webinars, etc. These individuals are the backbone of most AGC events and activities. Without them we would not be as successful. With them we are seeing the positive impact we are having on some of our strategic initiatives. We appreciate their commitment to the AGC and to making things better for the future of our industry. Volunteering can be a very rewarding experience. Seeing firsthand the difference you can make in someone's life or their future can be immeasurable. Volunteers understand the concept of giving back.
If you are not already involved, AGC welcomes you to be a part of our workforce development programs and events, community outreach, and social activities. If you are participating, we thank you. By working together, we can make a difference!