For the past decade, our career fair has connected students with the people, skills, and opportunities that make the construction industry such a rewarding career path. What began in 2016 as a way to introduce local students to the trades has grown into one of the largest hands-on construction career fairs in southern Wisconsin.
This year marked the 10th anniversary, hosted at our Headquarters in Janesville, WI, where more than 400 students joined us for a day of interactive demonstrations, conversations with industry professionals, and hands-on experiences. As we celebrate this milestone, it is exciting to reflect on the thousands of students who have attended over the years, many of whom have gone on to careers in the trades, engineering, construction management, and other related fields.
A Career Fair Unlike Any Other
Construction is a hands-on industry, and our career fair is designed to reflect that.
Rather than walking from booth to booth collecting brochures, students had the opportunity to actively participate in demonstrations and activities led by skilled professionals from a wide range of trades. This year, students explored electrical, mechanical, HVAC, fire protection, ironworking, carpentry, concrete finishing, masonry, operating engineers, safety, virtual design and construction (VDC), prefabrication, and more.
Exploring Career Opportunities After High School
There was no shortage of curiosity, enthusiasm, and engagement throughout the day. We were proud to welcome students from schools throughout the region, helping them better understand the variety of fulfilling and well-paying careers available within the industry.
Whether students are interested in apprenticeships, technical education, college degrees, or entering the workforce after graduation, construction provides opportunities for a wide range of interests and skills. From working with their hands and operating equipment to leading project teams, designing buildings, and applying technology to solve construction challenges, there is a place for everyone in the industry.
Check out our Facebook Page for photos from this exciting day and a look back at ten years of inspiring future builders.
Thank You to Our 2026 Sponsors
The success of this Construction Career Fair would not be possible without the incredible support of our sponsors, industry partners, trade organizations, and volunteers. Their commitment to workforce development helps create meaningful experiences that introduce students to careers they may never have considered otherwise. Huge thank you to: 1901, Ace Materials Placing, Advanced Fastening Systems, AGC, Alliant Energy, Badger Contractors Rental & Supply, Blackhawk Community Credit Union, Bobcat of Janesville, DeWALT, Esch Construction Supply, Fabick CatRentals, Hooper, IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 890), International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers (Local 383), IUOE (International Union of Operating Engineers Local 139), JF Ahern, Lincoln Contractors Supply, LiUNA (Laborers’ International Union of North America Local 464), Lycon, Makita, Marling Lumber and Homeworks, Milwaukee Tool, Neu’s Hardware Tools Paint, NNRCC (Northern Midwest Regional Council of Carpenters Local 1781), OPCMIA (Operative Plasterers’ and Cement Masons’ International Association Local 599), Peiper Power, Reynold Rigging & Crane Service, Sunbelt Rentals, United Rentals, Verona Safety, WI BAC (International Union of Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers District Council of WI), and Zalk Josephs Fabricators.
Finally, we would like to thank our dedicated employees for taking time out of their schedules to impact the community and the future of our industry. As we celebrate ten years of this career fair, we’re reminded that investing in young people today helps ensure a stronger construction workforce tomorrow. The support you provide to our community and our #FutureBuilders is truly appreciated.
Looking to get involved in the trades?
Are you or someone you know looking to get involved in the trades? Visit our website for more information about Career Opportunities. If you don’t see something of interest, please reach out to: hr@jpcullen.com. For information on how apprenticeships work, visit the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development website.
Upcoming student event?
Do you have an upcoming school career day or class presentation and want a construction professional to speak? We’d love to help – reach out to hr@jpcullen.com.
