Rating:

0.0 (0 votes)

There's an increasing demand for workers in the trades industry, and MSU-Great Falls is doing its part to make the field an attractive option for students deciding on a career path.

The school held the fourth annual Trades Rodeo and Career Fair on Wednesday.

Caleb Pottratz, a sophomore at CMR High School, has attended the Trades Rodeo and Career Fair several times, and says it's just as intriguing as ever.

Caleb said, "You get hands-on experience. And you get to work with the kids around here that go to school here and then they get to show you what they've learned...it's amazing what they've learned in such a short amount of time."

The demand for trades workers is growing, and welding instructor Brian Wergin says this is the time for people to get involved: "Right now with the oil boom going on...and these cross-country pipes going through, those are welders. You've got to have welders."

He says a career in welding with the demand of today is a great option with good benefits, and he's opening the students' eyes to the world of possibilities.

While money is definitely a factor, students say they see the importance of the industry and are anxious to participate.

Fellow CMR sophomore Levi Maxwell said, Everyone needs a welder, whether you're working on a ranch or just fixing something yourself, it's just a good skill to have."

The event featured 11 "rodeo" activities for students to test their skills at an industry and get a better understanding for what their future may hold.