The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration participated in the 2023 Atlanta Construction Ready Career Expo March 9-10.
The event was aimed at middle and high school students, and attendees could learn about careers in construction and related fields, including safety, highway construction, energy and roofing, according to a March 7 news release. OSHA professionals also highlighted the importance of on-the-job safety to the next generation of workers.
“The 2023 Construction Ready Career Expo is arguably the nation’s largest hands-on career day event,” Atlanta OSHA Regional Administrator Kurt Petermeyer said in the release.
The expo featured exhibits showcasing machinery and tools, and participants were available to answer questions about career options and skills needed in various industry fields, according to the release. The event is part of OSHA’s Young Worker Initiative, which provides information and resources to teenagers, parents, educators and employers to ensure safe and rewarding work experiences for summer employees.
Construction Ready attracts teachers, school administrators, parents, industry experts and volunteers, and safety will be supervised by industry professionals, the release reported. The expo acts as a simulated construction site where all attendees must wear a hard hat, safety glasses, long pants and closed-toe shoes. More than 9,000 attendees were expected to attend.