As Virginia faces a skilled labor shortage, the partnership between Henrico County Public Schools and local contractors is paving the way for a new generation of tradespeople. In this video, hear from construction leaders who helped build—and left unfinished—a real jobsite for students to complete as part of their training. From plumbing and electrical to HVAC and carpentry, students gain hands-on experience in a live construction environment—right in their own community.
This immersive, homegrown approach to career and technical education not only sparks interest but also creates real pathways to rewarding careers—debt-free. As one speaker shares, “I went from swinging a hammer to becoming CEO.”
👷♂️ Learn how industry and education are teaming up to build futures.
🔧 Explore why workforce development starts with exposure.
🏗️ See what’s possible when students build skills where they live.

