March 19, 2026
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT
Jessica Hedges
O: 314-817-5611 | C: 636-578-2215
HedgesJ@hbastl.com
PRESS RELEASE
Thousands of Area Youth, Community Members Learn About Careers in the Trades at Fifth Annual Build My Future® STL April 22-23 at St. Charles Family Arena
Build My Future® STL is a two-day construction career and industry showcase that includes hands-on exhibits and virtual reality simulations centered on the building trades and broader construction industry. On Wed., April 22 and Thurs., April 23 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., more than 3,000 students from more than 70 high schools across 15 counties in Missouri and Illinois are registered to attend the showcase at the St. Charles Family Arena. The event will be open to the general public on Wed., April 22 from 2-4 p.m. for anyone interested in learning more about high-paying, secure careers in a fun, interactive environment. Admission is free.
Nearly 70 local organizations that specialize in wood frame carpentry, plumbing, electrical, drywall, bricklaying, heavy equipment, tile laying, welding, HVAC, concrete, paving, flooring and more, will help attendees experience their trades first-hand through engaging demonstrations and learning labs. Exhibitors will also be available to discuss training options, wages, working conditions and opportunities within the industry. Click here to view the Build My Future® STL website for a list of participating organizations and visual representation of what to expect April 22-23.
Media coverage is welcome! Please contact Jessica Hedges to arrange to attend.
This important community initiative is co-chaired by representatives of the Home Builders Association of St. Louis & Eastern Missouri and the Francis Howell School District. Representatives from 14 school districts, several post-secondary institutions, workforce development entities, the Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council, Associated General Contractors of Missouri, Economic Development Council of St. Charles County, Greater St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce, and many other organizations are working together as a committee to promote an essential industry where labor shortages have been felt significantly for several years.
The idea for Build My Future® was born in Springfield, Mo., in 2014 out of a shared desire among industry professionals to remedy the dwindling pipeline of workers and lack of interest in the skilled trades. Today, Build My Future® is the largest event of its kind in the country, and now takes place annually in 13 states.
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