25th Southern Illinois Construction Industry Career Expo set for Sept. 23-25

By Managing Editor | September 12, 2025 |

High school students from 11 southern Illinois counties to explore “earn while you learn” construction careers

High school students from Johnson, Jefferson, Union, Hamilton, White, Saline, Perry, Jackson, Williamson, Franklin and Washington Counties will have the opportunity for a hands-on learning experience in the construction trades during the 25th Annual Southern Illinois Construction Industry Career Expo, scheduled for Sept. 23–25, 2025, at the DuQuoin State Fairgrounds.

The Expo is organized by the Southern Illinois Builders Association (SIBA) and the Southern Illinois Construction Advancement Program (SICAP). Students must pre-register though their school’s teachers or counselors to attend.

“The demand for skilled tradespeople has never been greater,” said Donna Richter, CEO of SIBA. “This Expo allows students to discover a rewarding career path where they can earn wages and receive benefits while training—without the heavy burden of college debt.”

An Alternative to College Costs

One of the Expo’s highlights is a comparison between college education costs and apprenticeship opportunities in the skilled trades, as the nearby chart will show. While college students often face years of tuition expenses and student loans, apprenticeships provide wages and a benefits package starting on day one. Apprentices “earn while they learn,” gaining valuable experience, certifications, and financial stability without accumulating debt.

What Students Will Experience

During the three-day event, students will:

Interact with professionals from multiple skilled trade unions.
Gain hands-on experience with tools and techniques used in the field.
Receive information about apprenticeship programs, wages, and benefits.
Learn how to prepare for a career in the construction trades.

Trade unions represented include the bricklayers; boilermakers; carpenters; cement masons/plasterers; electricians; iron workers; laborers; plumbers and pipefitters; and sheet metal workers.