The Builders Association of Eastern Ohio and Western Pennsylvania hits the target with a clay shooting competition to raise money for pre-apprentice programs, scholarships and education costs.
More than 70 participants from the building trades broke into foursomes for the first annual Bustin’ Clays with the Builders on October 24 at the Lawrence County Sportsman’s Club.
The fundraiser directly impacts the next generation of skilled workers, helping students enrolled in pre-apprenticeship programs move closer to their career goals.
“This event is all about generating money for our workforce development efforts with the pre-apprenticeship programs,” said Kevin Reilly, executive vice president of The Builders Association of Eastern Ohio and Western Pennsylvania. “We’re doing everything we can to give these students a great start—providing tools, boots, and other essentials they need to move from education to skilled trades.”
Targeting the Next Generation
The Builders Association has long been a champion of workforce development in the region, particularly through its pre-apprenticeship programs. They serve high school students who are interested in pursuing a career in the trades, giving them the foundational skills and knowledge they need to succeed.
There are 21 area schools with pre-apprenticeship programs – reaching about 700 students annually. These students learn the ins and outs of various trades and gain hands-on experience through projects that are judged by industry professionals.
“We want these kids to have a clear path from pre-apprenticeship to apprenticeship, and then into a full-fledged trade career,” Reilly said.
The event also supports a springtime pre-apprentice competition, where students showcase their skills in a judged contest. Top performers and their schools are awarded tools, further enhancing their readiness to join the workforce.
“It’s about giving them what they need, and Bustin’ Clays with the Builders is a big part of making that happen.”
Reilly applauded the sponsors who stepped up to make the event a success. Western Reserve Building Trades served as the partner sponsor, and Bodine and Company was the shotgun shell sponsor.
Walking Away with the Winnings
While the scores were being tallied, participants enjoyed lunch provided by Woody’s BBQ food truck. Prizes were awarded to the best shooters for high overall score, high overall team and sixth place winner.
There were also plenty of raffle prizes ranging from a new shotgun, insulated cooler and thousands of dollars’ worth of high-end tools – donated by Power Tool and Supply.
A side competition called the “impossible shot” allowed participants to pay for a chance to make a nearly impossible shot for a prize. Two people had the same score, so a tiebreaker shootout later declared the winner.
Taking Another Shot
Response to the inaugural Bustin’ Clays with the Builders has been overwhelmingly positive.
“We were really happy with the turnout and the support from our sponsors,” Reilly said. “We’re definitely planning to do this again next year. It was a great way to bring everyone together while also supporting such an important cause.”
As the region continues to experience growth and demand for skilled workers, events like this will play a crucial role in ensuring that the workforce of tomorrow has the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed.
“It’s about helping these kids build their future. We’re just giving them the tools to get started.”
For information about The Builders Association’s pre-apprenticeship programs, or apprenticeship opportunities, email Gary Hartman or call 330-539-6050.