Written by Melissa Walcott
President and CEO Scott Shelar with **[Construction Ready](https://constructionready.org/)** joins the Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio podcast to explore preparing the future construction workforce. Shelar joins host Carol Morgan on the All About Real Estate segment.
A repeat guest, the last time Shelar made an appearance on the **[Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio podcast](https://www.atlantarealestateforum.com/cefga-facilitates-job-placement-in-construction-industry-and-skilled-trades/)**, he represented the Construction Education Foundation of Georgia (CEFGA). Rebranded as Construction Ready, the organization has been a part of the industry since 1993, inspiring and driving individuals toward skilled trade positions.
By providing potential hires with the necessary credentials and training, Construction Ready aids in their search for a successful career in construction, regardless of age or background.
> _Shelar said, “We want the skilled trades to be as valuable as a four-year degree. A big part of our vision is to get society to a point where the true value of a career in the trades.”_
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Construction Ready provides those interested in pursuing a career in the skilled trades with access to the necessary education to guide them toward a successful path. Typically, recent college graduates enter the workforce with student debt, and one of the many benefits of pursuing a trade is the absence of loans.
Companies in the construction industry recognize the benefit of developing skilled trades and provide funding for new hires to pursue apprenticeship training. Employees have the opportunity to earn money while obtaining additional education to work toward that skilled trade. While remaining supportive of advanced schooling, Construction Ready centers around finding a trajectory that works in the individual’s best interest.
For many years, Construction Ready only serviced the metro Atlanta area. After a recent state-wide expansion, the organization now serves Augusta, Columbus, Macon, Savannah and many other cities across the state. In March, Construction Ready announced its first out-of-state expansion in a fantastic partnership with the Jacksonville Jaguars in Florida!
After hearing how Atlanta Falcons Owner Arthur Blank provided jobs to local residents that taught skilled trades to construct the new Mercedes Benz Stadium, Jaguars Owner Shahid Khan took inspiration from the story! Khan conducted a $500 million renovation and launched programs to provide employment opportunities to the Jacksonville community. The program has already received 150 applicants and is experiencing fantastic success.
> _Shelar said, “One of the things we have figured out over the years is you have to start younger. We have to reach people before they get to high school…as early as we can.”_
A new Construction Ready program, **[Little Builders](https://constructionready.org/schools/)** sends Home Depot Kids Workshop Kits to second graders across Georgia to engage young children in the construction industry. Many have never held a hammer or driven a nail at this stage and while the program does not focus on career planning, it inspires youths to engage in building and creativity at a young age.
Tune in to the full interview above to learn more about Construction Ready or visit **[www.constructionready.org](https://constructionready.org/)**.
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Source: Atlanta Real Estate Forum
