Over 1,000 high school students will be treated to an interactive glimpse into the transportation construction industry during the 3rd Annual Northwest Florida Construction Career Days (CCD), April 25-26, at the Santa Rosa County Fairgrounds, 8604 Bobby Brown Road, Milton.

• The event will provide students with the opportunity to operate heavy machinery and learn about bridge construction, paving, concrete, traffic control, engineering, and more. 

Students will be introduced to the large number of career paths available in the transportation, structural, engineering, and building industries, and will be able to interact with representatives from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), as well as various engineering firms and contractors looking to hire in the Northwest Florida area.

According to FDOT, high school seniors who attend Construction Career Days in-person or virtually are eligible to receive a portion of up to $50,000 in scholarship funds that will be awarded this year. 

• The scholarship fund was established to assist high school graduates enrolling in college, trade/vocational education programs, or those entering directly into the workforce.

With billions of dollars of construction activity lined up for the next decade and entry-level workers in high demand, FDOT District Three says they are working diligently to create a pipeline of workforce and economic opportunities for the next generation. 

“Not only does this event give students a unique chance to explore career opportunities that have substantial benefits and add tremendous value to their communities, but it also allows FDOT and its industry partners to connect with young people of all backgrounds and skill levels,” wrote FDOT in a statement. “Students over the age of 18 will be able to fill out applications for hiring companies during the event.”

Note: This event is for participating schools only and is not open to the public.