Camp Shows Females Opportunities For Construction Careers

TUPELO, MISS. (WCBI) – All this week, these middle and high school students have built lamps, and practiced CPR on a mannequin.

“It’s building girls for a better tomorrow construction camp,” said Kala Hudson, with Americorps, who helps organize the camp.

This is the first year for the camp, made possible through a partnership including ICC, the Associated Builders and Contractors and JESCO Construction Company.

The premise is simple; introduce young ladies to the many opportunities in the construction industry, while putting safety first.

“We use a motto, safety is the act of doing the job correctly, and we have that printed on a lot of things. Everytime, when you buy a camera, first thing is safety instructions, when you buy a TV, safety instructions,” said Mark Willcutt, of JESCO.

This camp also emphasizes practical tips for do it yourself projects .

“Basic woodworking, if they need to build something or fix something at home, skills they can use everyday, as well as introducing them to possible careers,” Hudson said.

Participants say the camp was fun and interesting, with many valuable lessons.

“I like being able to learn new things and being able to create stuff and if there’s ever an emergency, you know how to save someone’s life now,” said Jacie Dickinson.

“When you look at it, like to be boring and stuff, but when you really come here, it’s really fun and you get to learn new stuff,” said Billytney Morris.

Although the camp is finished, a bench, made by the young ladies, will be given to a local non profit, where it will be put to good use. Organizers are preparing for several other tech related camps at the ICC Belden campus this month.