Careers in Construction Month (CICM) is a reminder: the industry’s greatest asset is its people. Investing in inclusion, training and leadership ensures that the workforce is ready not just for today’s demands, but for tomorrow’s opportunities.
CAREERS IN CONSTRUCTION MONTH HISTORY
CICM was launched by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) and its outreach arm, Build Your Future (BYF). Together, they wanted to give construction the kind of visibility other industries have long enjoyed. October is a time when the spotlight turns to the people, stories and pathways that keep an industry strong.
Over the years, NCCER and BYF have created toolkits, contests and campaigns to help contractors, educators and community leaders spread the word. The movement has grown so much that now states across the country officially proclaim October as Careers in Construction Month.
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN 2025?
This year, NCCER and BYF are encouraging participation through a week-by-week plan with themes to keep the momentum going.
Week 1 (Oct. 1-3): Kickoff Stories: Companies and individuals share how they got into construction.
Week 2 (Oct. 6-10): Community Connections: Builders are engaging youth organizations like Boys & Girls Clubs with demos and activities.
Week 3 (Oct. 13-17): Student Chapter Engagement: Guest speakers, site tours, and classroom visits give students a look at the real world of construction.
Week 4 (Oct. 20-24): Young Professionals Week: Emerging leaders are being spotlighted and encouraged to share their experiences. The week caps off with Careers in Construction Day on Oct. 23.
Week 5 (Oct. 27-31): Celebrate Your Team: Companies highlight their crews and recognize the people who make projects happen every day.
To make it easier, NCCER and NAHB have released free toolkits with ready-made graphics, sample social posts, and flyers that companies can customize for their outreach.
WHO’S TAKING PART?
Participation keeps growing each year. In 2024, more than 70 organizations signed the official CICM pledge. In 2025, that number is expected to climb even higher. Here are just a few examples of what’s happening now:
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Mortenson is using CICM to highlight mentorship programs, internships, and inclusion efforts across its renewable energy and infrastructure projects.
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NCCER recently announced a new simulator-based credential for heavy equipment operators, an industry first that’s being showcased during CICM.
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Contractors nationwide are opening their job sites to student tours, partnering with trade schools, and using social media hashtags like #CICM2025 and #CareersInConstructionMonth to share employee stories.
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Educators and student chapters are inviting industry professionals into classrooms and labs to talk about career opportunities and pathways.
Even state governments are joining in with governors and mayors issuing official proclamations declaring October as Careers in Construction Month, alongside companies and schools. These proclamations are an important tool to raise visibility and spark conversations about workforce needs.
HOW CAN YOUR COMPANY PARTICIPATE?
Whether you are a national company or a family run business, CICM offers plenty of ways to get involved. Here are seven of the most popular (and effective) approaches.
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Take the Pledge: Commit to connecting with at least one classroom or student group this month in the 2025 CICM pledge.
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Host a Jobsite Tour: Invite students, teachers or community members to see construction up close.
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Bring Speakers into Classrooms: Send apprentices, project managers or equipment operators to share their career journeys.
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Celebrate Your Crew: Post “day in the life” stories on social media, highlight employee milestones or run an internal recognition campaign.
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Support Training & Tools: Offer scholarships, donate equipment, or back student contests like the “I BUILT THIS!” video challenge.
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Spread the Word: Use official CICM hashtags #CICM2025 and #CareersInConstructionMonth and share graphics from the NAHB Toolkit.
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Get a Proclamation: Encourage local leaders to officially declare October as Careers in Construction Month using this state-by-state guide.
WHY IT MATTERS
Construction faces one of the most pressing workforce shortages in decades. Hundreds of thousands of skilled workers will be needed in the coming years to replace retirees and meet growing demand for infrastructure, housing, and renewable energy projects.
Careers in Construction Month is not just about celebrating those already in the industry, it’s about opening doors. By telling real stories, connecting with students and offering a first-hand look at modern construction careers, companies can help reshape perceptions and inspire the next generation.
