Building the Next Generation of Skilled Trades Professionals
For more than a decade, AGCVA’s Valley District has been bringing students and construction professionals together to put skilled trades talent to the test—and build connections that can last well beyond the competition.
The Valley District Skilled Trades Competition, which began in 2012, welcomed 23 students this year from area career and technical education programs. Each year, the competition typically draws 25–30 students who have the opportunity to demonstrate their skills in carpentry, electrical, HVAC, and masonry.
But the impact of the event goes far beyond determining a winner.
The competition gives students an opportunity to work alongside and receive feedback from professionals who make their living in the trades. For AGCVA members, it provides a firsthand look at the talent entering the industry - and an opportunity to begin building relationships with the next generation of Virginia’s construction workforce.
In fact, Valley District members have gone on to employ students who participated in the competition. Former competitors have also returned to watch the event, demonstrating the lasting connection the program has created between students and the local construction community.
Four Days of Skilled Trades
This year’s competition kicked off Monday with carpentry, featuring seven competitors. MTC took home the top honor, with materials sponsored by Lantz Construction and services provided by Harman Construction. Judges were also from Lantz Construction and Harman Construction.
Tuesday brought the electrical competition, with eight students competing and MTC earning another win. Trumbo Electric and Capital Electric sponsored materials, while Trumbo Electric provided the competition judges.
On Wednesday, six students competed in HVAC, with Valley taking the top spot. Riddleberger Brothers sponsored materials and joined Blauch Brothers in providing judges.
The week concluded Thursday with masonry, where two competitors put their skills to work and Valley earned the win. Frederick Block Brick & Stone provided materials, while Sunbelt Rentals and United Rentals provided equipment. Judges were provided by Sam Carr Masonry and Masonry Plus.
None of this would be possible without the dedication of AGCVA members and the Valley District Executive Committee, which has continued to champion the competition year after year.
A special thank you goes to the companies that volunteered their time and expertise throughout the week:
Harman Construction • Lantz Construction • Fortiline Waterworks • Eddie Edwards Signs • Riddleberger Brothers • Kjellstrom & Lee • Trumbo Electric • James River Equipment
The Valley District's commitment to skilled trades education can even be seen in the competition's home. In 2015, a pavilion was constructed to support the event and provide a dedicated space where students could demonstrate their abilities.
More than a decade after the first competition, that commitment continues. Through the dedication of the Valley District Executive Committee, AGCVA member companies, volunteers, judges and local schools, the Skilled Trades Competition is helping students see a future in construction while giving local employers an opportunity to meet the people who may one day become their employees.
