Inspiring the Next Generation of Builders: VDC Presents at Career Connections Academy

C.D. Smith’s Virtual Design and Construction team presents to students at the Career Connections Academy in Fond du Lac, inspiring future builders through technology and teamwork. — VDC presenters Kelly Seniuk and Egor Shalamov with 8th-grade students at Career Connections Academy.

Event: Career Connections Academy, hosted by Envision Greater Fond du Lac in partnership with Moraine Park Technical College

TL;DR

Over 1,000 eighth graders explored construction careers at Career Connections Academy in Fond du Lac. C.D. Smith’s Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) team showed how digital tools and skilled trades work together to build better communities. The experience helped students see real paths into the trades. This story connects to ongoing mentorship efforts like ACE Academy, Bricklayer 500, and education grants that help students explore careers in construction.

Students explore a digital modeling demonstration with C.D. Smith’s Virtual Design and Construction team during the Career Connections Academy in Fond du Lac.

Bringing Construction to Life Through Technology

Career Connections Academy is one of Wisconsin’s largest hands-on career expos for middle school students. In a series of short, rotating sessions, students met with professionals from various industries and learned what those careers look like on a day-to-day basis.

The Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) team demonstrated how 3D modeling supports planning, coordination, and communication before a project breaks ground. Students saw how clear visuals help teams make better decisions earlier and how digital skills pair with field experience to deliver quality results.

Kelly Seniuk leads a hands-on activity demonstrating building system coordination as students gather around to learn about construction technology careers.

Building Curiosity and Confidence

Many students arrived thinking construction is only about hammers and hard hats. They left with a broader view. Today’s jobs blend creativity, problem solving and technology with hands-on craft. From model coordination to layout and verification, digital tools open doors for students who enjoy design, math or computers and want work that creates something real for their community.

C.D. Smith’s Virtual Design and Construction team leads a demonstration on construction coordination, showing students how digital tools guide field work.

Investing in the Future Workforce: Why it Matters

Programs like Career Connections work because schools, technical colleges and local employers collaborate. That collaboration builds awareness, speeds skill development and shows students there is a place for every strength. It also strengthens communities by growing the next generation of builders close to home.

C.D. Smith’s Virtual Design and Construction team mentors students exploring construction careers through a hands-on building systems model at Career Connections Academy.

Mentorship that Builds more than Buildings

The Career Connections story is part of a larger narrative. C.D. Smith’s commitment to mentorship runs deep:

ACE Academy Partnership: Students at Fond du Lac High School work side-by-side with field mentors, learning masonry and construction skills while building projects like the ACE Shanty.
Bricklayer 500 Wisconsin: Masons compete and mentor, showcasing craftsmanship and inspiring students to explore the trade.
Grants for Education and Training: Scholarships help students pursue careers in skilled trades and construction management, covering tools, tuition, and more.

These efforts reflect a shared mission: building communities by investing in the next generation.

Students listen as C.D. Smith’s Virtual Design and Construction team explains how digital modeling connects technology with construction during the Career Connections Academy.

Key Takeaways

Early exposure matters. Real interactions with professionals help students see clear pathways into the trades.
Technology is part of the craft. VDC and digital tools make construction more collaborative and precise.
Partnerships build momentum. Schools, technical colleges, and industry together create opportunity for students.
Community investment pays forward. Mentorship and hands-on learning strengthen local talent pipelines.

Events like Career Connections Academy are just the beginning. As schools, technical colleges, and industry partners continue to collaborate, more students will discover their strengths and find purpose in building the future.

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Date: October 24, 2025 | Author: Tracy Lisowe

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