Bridging America's Gap provides resources to SkillsUSA state conferences

Bridging America’s Gap (BAG), a nonprofit organization in Alexandria, Va., recently hosted two career skills events (CSEs) in partnership with SkillsUSA Indiana and SkillsUSA Wisconsin State Conferences. These CSEs gave student competitors exposure to potential employers, providing real-life experiences on how they got into the skilled trade industries and what their career paths have been, as well as tips on how to prepare for job interviews and land their first job.

BAG provided one-page job descriptions for each learning station highlighting job duties; potential salary; and required education, training, and certifications. The students tested their skills on welding and construction equipment simulators and interacted with representatives and recruiters from local training schools and skilled trade employers.

“Our goal and objective in hosting CSEs are to help employers develop long-term solutions to find qualified workers and to provide resources to the next generation of skilled workers so they can achieve their career dreams,” said Brett Melvin, BAG’s executive director. “Understanding less than 25 percent of businesses have a true relationship with schools, our mission is to help bridge the gap that exists between educators and employers. I believe the collaboration we offer through our CSEs makes a difference.”