SIBA Summer Camp Introduces Students to Construction Careers
Date Posted: August 18, 2026
Posted In: Organizations, Workforce,
From St. Louis/Southern Illinois Labor Tribune: More than 20 high school students spent the week of July 20-24, 2026, exploring rewarding careers in the construction trades during the Southern Illinois Builders Association (SIBA) Skilled Trades Summer Camp.
The immersive, five-day program gave students the opportunity to visit union apprenticeship training centers and experience the work of skilled trades professionals through hands-on activities.
UNION CAREER INTRODUCTIONS
Sponsored by SIBA and the Southern Illinois Construction Advancement Program (SICAP), the annual camp introduced students to careers that offer paid apprenticeships, competitive wages, comprehensive benefits and long-term career opportunities without the burden of college debt.
Throughout the week, students trained alongside instructors and apprentices representing five construction trade unions:
- Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council
- Boilermakers Local 363
- Downstate Illinois Laborers District Council
- Ironworkers Local 392
- Sheet Metal Workers Local 268