A library is a place where people go to expand their knowledge, making it the perfect setting for students to begin building an understanding of the construction industry. Recently, the Manchester Public Library project team hosted another O&G Builds session, welcoming a group of eighth-grade students and one seventh grader from Saint James School in Manchester for an engaging, hands-on introduction to construction careers.
The session began with the O&G team introducing themselves and sharing what they do on the job, along with other projects O&G has completed throughout Manchester. The conversation quickly turned to the many pathways available in construction, including the importance of choosing the right high school courses and the options students have after graduation, whether that’s pursuing college or entering a union apprenticeship program.
Students were introduced to the wide range of roles within the construction industry, from field operations and skilled trades to engineering and project management. The team emphasized the skills that matter most across every role: strong communication, adaptability, a positive attitude, reliability, and the ability to work as part of a team. They also discussed the importance of financial literacy, explaining how managing budgets and resources is critical when working on multi-million-dollar projects.
To make those ideas tangible, the team highlighted how entry-level jobs, often starting as early as age 16, help young people develop responsibility, time management, and teamwork skills that translate directly to the jobsite. Students also learned about Lean Construction, including how LEAN boards and pull-planning tools help teams coordinate multiple trades and plan work up weeks in advance to keep projects on schedule.
After reviewing safety guidelines, the group headed out for a tour of the active site. The team walked students through different areas of the building, explaining the work underway and how each phase fits into the overall project. They also discussed the library’s net zero design, highlighting the geothermal heating and cooling systems and the photovoltaic array that work together to support a more sustainable building.
During the tour students met Sydney, a young ironworker, lifelong Manchester resident, and a key part of the project since day one. A graduate of Cheney Tech, Sydney went directly into the ironworkers union after high school – offering a relatable and inspiring example of what a career in construction can look like.
At the end of the tour, Senior Project Manager Nelson Reis asked the students how many were now considering a career in construction. Nearly every hand in the group went up.
The impact continued even after the visit ended. One of the teachers who accompanied the students shared, “They loved it. They were so excited when they got back to class. They learned some great things, and it was an engaging experience.”
Through sessions like this, O&G Builds continues to spark curiosity, build confidence, and open doors for students; connecting classroom learning to real-world opportunities and helping the next generation see themselves as part of the future of construction.
