Imagine the growth the industry could have if more contractors made time for students in schools. “It’s essential for all contractors to encourage the next generation to learn to build things as early as elementary school and continuing through high school,” added Heiden. “If we wait until they’re 18, we’ve already lost groups of students to stereotypes about working smart, not hard. Our Trades booth gives students a chance to try tuck-pointing brick, grouting tile, and caulking joints.”