Help Build the Workforce You Wish You Had.

The U.S. construction industry faces a critical skilled labor shortage—an estimated 750,000 new workers are needed annually through 2032 to decarbonize the built environment, build affordable housing, and modernize aging infrastructure. Our social media campaign, @Chat_CTE, bridges this gap by connecting career explorers with real trades professionals, inspiring the next generation through digital storytelling and hands-on experiences.

Why Your Support Matters:
By donating to @Chat_CTE, you help high school students, career changers, women, veterans, and underrepresented groups access opportunities in the skilled trades, industries that are high-paying, fulfilling, and essential to our communities.

Your donation will directly support:

• High School Internship Opportunities: Fund up to 12 students in a five-week summer program, giving them an immersive, on-site experience in the construction industry.
• College Intern Leadership: College interns gain professional experience by leading high school interns through job site tours, mentoring them in interviewing, video editing, and professional workplace skills.
• Job Site Visits: Introduce students to real-world construction projects and contractors who are too short-staffed to visit schools, sparking curiosity and early career exploration.
• Essential Tools: Provide access to Canva Pro, empowering interns with professional digital storytelling skills, an essential tool for the future workforce.
• Broad Outreach & Inclusion: Expand our reach to women, veterans, minorities, and career changers, ensuring everyone sees the opportunities available in construction.
• Year-Round Industry Engagement: Fund networking events, mentorship, and skill-building programs to sustain career pathways beyond summer internships.

Impact Highlights (June 2024 – Present):

• Reached 1.5 million views across TikTok and Instagram to date.
• Produced 50+ interviews with trades professionals across the DMV region, showcasing career journeys and advice.
• Partnered with 20 General Contractors, Specialty Subs, Skills USA Chapters, Suppliers, Vendors, CTE and Public Schools to give interns 250+ hours of hands-on internship experience.

Future Goals:

• Reach 3 million views in the next year to inspire students nationwide.
• Expand internship programs to include digital marketing, editing, and outreach roles.
• Strengthen partnerships with local contractors, schools, and workforce development programs to create sustainable career pathways.
• Support Careers in Construction Day events with Merch.designed by students
• Target micro-influencers (1K–25K followers) active on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Prioritize trades with high visibility (electrical, plumbing, welding, HVAC, carpentry, etc.).

By donating to MCCEI today, you’re not just supporting students — you’re showing millions of Americans why the trades are worth choosing, celebrating, and building a future in.