Students Get Hands-On Experience in Skilled Trades at Behind the Drywall Summer Institute

Photo of all the students who participated in the PCC workshop

Mancos, CO – Thirty high school students from across Southwest Colorado spent a week immersed in the world of skilled trades through the Behind the Drywall Summer Institute, held at Pueblo Community College Southwest in collaboration with the Southwest Colorado Education Collaborative. Designed to spark interest in construction and sustainable trades, the program gave students a unique, hands-on look at high-wage, high-demand careers. Throughout the institute, students:

  • Visited an active residential construction site

  • Practiced plumbing and HVAC techniques

  • Wired circuits alongside a licensed electrician

  • Explored solar energy and panel installation

  • Learned multiple forms of welding

  • Operated a compact excavator

  • Tested their skills on a heavy equipment simulator

Students also participated in a focused session on mental health, discussing how emotional well-being intersects with physically demanding careers like construction. The session encouraged open conversations about stress, safety, and building healthy habits on and off the job site.

Student Impact

Initial feedback from participants highlights the program’s success:

  • 80% of students expressed an interest in a career in the building trades as a result of this program

  • 86% of students said their awareness of careers in the building trades increased

  • 100% of students said they feel more confident pursuing a career in the trades

  • 100% of students would recommend the institute to a friend

Powered by Community Partners

Behind the Drywall was made possible through the generosity and collaboration of regional businesses and organizations committed to developing the next generation of skilled workers. We’re grateful to the professionals who volunteered their time and expertise to lead hands-on sessions throughout the week. Their real-world knowledge brought trades careers to life for students. Thank you to Stone Age Concrete Construction, M&R Service, Direct Connect Electric LLC, La Plata County Public Health, and PCC Carpentry & Welding Departments. Special thanks to the organizations that donated tools, materials, or financial support to make this immersive experience possible. Your contributions directly impacted students’ access to high-quality learning opportunities. Thank you to the LOR Foundation, Choice Building Supply, Inc., Target Rental, and Kroegers Ace Hardware.

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