Building Careers: Why the Construction Industry Needs the Next Generation
On May 27, 2026, Outdoor Solutions joined construction professionals involved with the Professional Women in Building (PWB) Maryland at the She-Built Reading Event, hosted at the Boys & Girls Club in Frederick. The PWB featured a group of skilled female professionals from the construction and building industry to inspire young people through hands-on learning experiences.
The event invited approximately 60 kids from the Boys & Girls Club to participate in an interactive day designed to spark interest in construction careers. It was a direct invitation for young students to explore careers in one of the most rewarding industries: the building trades. With passionate PWB volunteers and local construction professionals working side-by-side, the event unified everyone around a single mission: to inspire young people to see themselves as builders, problem-solvers, and future leaders in the construction industry.
Station Rotation: The Big Hit of the Day
During the station rotation portion of the event, kids moved through interactive, hands-on activity stations where they could explore real tools and engage directly with construction professionals. At each station, children learned about different trades and what a career in that field actually looks like.
The stations covered a range of skilled trades, including electrical work and plumbing, alongside hardscaping and general construction. But more importantly, volunteers engaged kids in real conversations about these careers. What does an electrician actually do? What skills do you need to get started? These aren’t abstract questions for the kids – they’re opportunities to encourage participants to thoughtfully consider their futures.
“It’s great to see so many people from the construction industry engaging with young people today,” noted a Boys & Girls Club staff member, capturing the value of this direct community connection.
This community involvement in Frederick went beyond traditional education. By combining literacy with STEM and career exploration, the event helped students understand that building skills lead to real careers and meaningful work. When kids get to hold actual tools, ask questions of working professionals, and learn what different trades actually do, it transforms construction from an abstract concept into an exciting possibility for their own future.
Outdoor Solutions’ Commitment to Community
As a Maryland-based outdoor services company, Outdoor Solutions believes in giving back to the communities we serve. Crystal Girona Calderon, representing Outdoor Solutions, donated tape measures to the event.
Outdoor Solutions wasn’t the only local business that participated. The event showcased incredible collaboration among Frederick’s business community:
- Elizabeth Chan from Miner Feinstein Architects led the event
- Jill Maenner of Ternion Builders sponsored materials
- Jessica Underwood with JR Capital Build volunteered her time
- Denise Hess from First United Bank & Trust supported the mission
- Emily Grimes of ECS Limited participated as a mentor
- The Frederick Builders Association and FCBIA donated stress hammers
Together, these organizations sent a powerful message to the next generation: the building industry is welcoming, diverse, and full of opportunity.
The Ripple Effect of Community Involvement
Events like this create lasting impact. Young participants leave with inspiration and actual knowledge about potential career paths. For Outdoor Solutions, our participation reflects our commitment to Frederick and our investment in the next generation who will shape our region’s future.
Ready to Work with Builders Who Care
At Outdoor Solutions, we combine expert craftsmanship with community values. Whether you’re interested in hardscaping services, custom pool installation, landscape design, or complete outdoor living transformations, we bring the same dedication to your project that we bring to our community.
Learn more about what drives our team and the values behind every project we build. Discover why you should choose Outdoor Solutions for your next outdoor project.
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