Girls in Construction camp introduces high schoolers to trades

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Most high schoolers don't spend their summer break learning how to use tools and build sports equipment.

But these high school girls are getting one-on-one instruction with staff members at O'Shea Builders to learn construction skills and safety in a partnership with Lincoln Land Community College Together they are building a kickboard for the Gus & Flora Kerasotes YMCA.

"This is an opportunity to do something that's not highlighted as much," said Matt O'Shea, Adjunct Professor at LLCC. "Going into construction typically isn't the first thing young women thinking about when they are looking into college pathways."

The girls cycle through each activity and learn how to use tool needed for the project. They also visited current construction sites to see how work is typically divided among workers.

The program is led by female employees, so the participants can see women working in the field.

"A lot of people tell me I can't do things because I'm a girl, so its very inspiring to see other women being able to do it," said Mattie Tierney, a 16-year-old who is part of the program. "It shows me that I do that when I am older."

Tierney said she's enjoyed the program, and hopes to pursue construction, or another trade in the future. Part of her inspiration is Brittany Hunter, a labor foreman who has worked at O'Shea for 10 years.

"Most people don't think construction is something that women can do and realize that we have a place here," said Hunter. "I wish I had known when I was younger that it was a possibility in a male-dominated field."

Even if the participants don't enter the construction field, Hunter and O'Shea hope the skills they learn help them have confidence and useful skills in the future.