Hands-on opportunities: Build Like a Girl seeks local construction and supply partners

Associated Builders and Contractors Greater Michigan Chapter (ABC-GMC), the Greater Michigan Construction Academy (GMCA), and LOGIC (Ladies Operating for Growth in Construction) are calling on construction contractors and suppliers to host interactive booths at Build Like a Girl, coming to the Great Lakes Bay Region at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 25, at The Great Hall, 5121 Bay City Road, Midland.

The event introduces young women in grades 5–12 to careers in construction through hands-on exhibits, demonstrations, and a panel of accomplished women in the industry. ABC-GMC and event partners are actively seeking construction firms and suppliers to provide interactive, hands-on activities that give attendees a genuine look at the work performed in each trade or field. Participation is free.

“Build Like a Girl is about opening doors and sparking confidence,” says Cathy Geiger, director of marketing and community affairs at ABC Greater Michigan Chapter. “When young women see what’s possible — when they use a drill, wire, or build something for the first time — they begin to realize that construction isn’t just a career path, it’s a place where they belong and can thrive.”

Booth hosts will have the opportunity to engage directly with participants, demonstrate skills, and showcase educational pathways that lead to rewarding, well-paying STEM-based careers in construction. Attendees will also receive a t-shirt, trucker hat, swag bag, and more. To guarantee preferred sizes, participants are encouraged to register by Jan. 16.

Sponsorships and prize donations are also being accepted to support this community initiative. Both financial and in-kind contributions help make the event possible, and the deadline to sponsor is Jan. 16.

To learn more, register, or get involved as a booth host or sponsor, visit online or contact Cathy Geiger at cgeiger@abcgmc.org.

The Greater Michigan Construction Academy is a 501c3 non-profit organization and a nationally certified training program using the National Center for Construction Education and Research curriculum, making training portable nationwide for students completing modules. GMCA’s mission is to train and develop a highly skilled, safe workforce and promote construction trades as a career choice.

Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. is a national trade association with 22,000 members representing more than 19,000 construction and industry-related firms. ABC Greater Michigan Chapter serves 23 counties, providing craft and professional education, up-to-date industry communication, and legislative representation.

LOGIC is a peer group for women in construction led by ABC Greater Michigan. LOGIC represents the interests of women within the industry and increases resources to promote a positive image of women in construction.