Families got a hands-on look at heavy construction equipment today as part of Erie County technical school’s third annual diggers and dumpers event.
the technical school and its industry partners offered an introduction to the world of heavy construction equipment.
community events such as these can change futures.
at Erie county technical school on Oliver road, kids and families got an in-depth look at machinery while learning about the many careers available in the construction field. equipment operators demonstrated how the machines work, hoping to spark children’s interest and showcase a wide range of promising careers that do not require a university degree.
“Most kids growing up only want to be in a career they’re exposed to, like professional sports, music, teaching, or being a doctor. those are the things they see, and we know there are so many more jobs out there in industries they don’t get to see. that’s why we’re seeing schools do better, and we’re getting more field trips out there,” said Matt Laverede, director of Erie county technical school.
this equipment is part of our daily lives, from construction to agriculture, one of the state’s largest economic sectors.
among those attending the event was a ninth-grade student at general McLane high school who fell in love with not only the event but the industry itself, eventually landing a job at xl excavating in Cambridge springs.
“Last year, I was really obsessed with riding machines and stuff, so I came. I went through the xl excavating line so many times they offered me a job, so I walked home with a job,” said Samuel Harroun, a student at general McClane high school.
stories like his show the many possibilities and rewarding careers available to students after high school.
organizers hope to continue this new tradition and spark interest in Erie’s next generation of skilled workers.