Camp Hard Hat, a week-long day camp that focuses on community-based construction projects, is expanding its reach this summer. The program, which targets local students aged 12-15, has expanded from two to seven locations, including four in Monroe County and one in Livingston County.
The expansion is a result of the program’s success in Genesee and Wyoming counties over the past decade. Since its inception, 400 students have participated, completing over 10,000 hours of training and learning. Encouraged by these achievements, the organizers have decided to further expand the program to more locations in the GLOW and Finger Lakes regions by 2024.
Camp Hard Hat is a collaboration between the Genesee County Business Education Alliance and Livingston Associates, a business consulting firm specializing in infrastructure solutions. The courses are taught by instructors from BOCES Building Trades and past Camp Hard Hat graduates. Participants are taught design and construction principles, project safety, and the importance of teamwork.
Livingston Associates, an active partner in construction-related workforce opportunities, recognizes the value of Camp Hard Hat in introducing young individuals to career paths in construction and skilled trades. Anthony DiTucci, the president and CEO of Livingston Associates, emphasizes the program’s role in educating area youth about the variety of opportunities available in the industry.
The program, originally created in 2013 by the Genesee County Business Education Alliance, aims to expose students to potential careers and workforce opportunities they may not be aware of. Karyn Winters, the director of the Genesee County Business Education Alliance, emphasizes the importance of providing students with career exploration opportunities and practical life skills that can be applied regardless of whether they pursue a career in construction or skilled trades.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available for Camp Hard Hat to cover the costs of tools, equipment, instructors, transportation, lunch, and full camp scholarships for qualifying individuals. Sponsorships are available at various levels, from Toolbox and Toolbelt to Hammer, Saw, Flashlight, and Nail. Businesses and individuals have the chance to contribute to the program and support the growth and development of young individuals interested in the construction and skilled trades industry.
Camp Hard Hat’s expansion into Monroe and Livingston Counties signifies its impact and effectiveness in preparing students for potential careers in construction and skilled trades. With further plans for expansion in the future, the program continues to provide invaluable opportunities for youth in the GLOW and Finger Lakes regions to learn about and explore potential career paths.
