My name is Goosie Kennedy and I am a Project Manager with D.R. Reynolds, Inc.  I have been part of the Carolinas AGC for the past few years. 2019 was my first year taking part in the CAGC Young Leaders and I have enjoyed my time spent getting to know the organization, what it stands for, and how it can help shape my knowledge and effectiveness within the industry. Through the Young Leader meetings I was introduced into an even more specific initiative that instantly hit home with me, the Build Your Career (BYC) workforce development initiative.

BYC was formed to educate the young people in our high schools about the opportunities the construction industry has to offer. The trick is, the initiative only operates through time and commitment from leaders that are willing to reach out to and speak with their local high schools. I have garnered great success in my outreach, as the shortage of young construction personnel is a frantic need in my area and for my company. In my experience, I’ve had multiple employment applications delivered for hire after I speak and encourage the students to look further into construction as a career stepping stone.

My call to action today, as the economy continues to grow and projects continue to need personnel, is for other companies, contractors, project managers, and business owners to contact the BYC, equip yourself with the information provided by the BYC, and prepare to enter your local high schools. Get on the ground level with the workers you need to make your company great!

For more information on the CAGC Foundation’s Build Your Career workforce development initiative, our Contractors in the Classroom program or to volunteer to become a BYC Ambassador, please visit our website or contact Program Director, Tammy Ford, via email at tford@carolinasagc.org or by phone at (704) 995-3901. To learn more about D.R. Reynolds Company, Inc., employment opportunities at D.R. Reynolds or to speak with Goosie Kennedy, please visit their company website. To make a charitable contribution to BYC, please visit our secure online donation portal.