NAWIC Members Inspire Young Minds Through Construction Storytime

Recently, NAWIC members had the wonderful opportunity to volunteer their time by reading construction-themed books to kindergartners at Fairview Elementary and first graders at Rock Bridge Elementary as part of the AGC of Missouri Library Reading Program. This initiative is designed to spark curiosity about the construction industry at an early age, and it truly delivered!

The students were incredibly attentive and engaged, asking thoughtful and imaginative questions such as:

“Do we use blueprints?”

“How do they build bridges in the water?”

“Do construction workers get to eat lunch?”

and even “Have you ever dug up a dinosaur bone on a job site?!"

Their enthusiasm reminded us why programs like these are so important for workforce development and education. We thoroughly enjoyed sharing our passion for construction and helping young learners explore the world of building and design.

About the AGC of Missouri Library Reading Program

The AGC of Missouri created this program to introduce children to construction in a fun and interactive way. During story time, each child receives a plastic hard hat and safety vest, and the classroom is transformed into a simplified “construction job site.” Guest readers wear hard hats and vests, making the experience even more authentic.

After the reading, every child takes home an AGCMO coloring/activity book filled with construction-themed fun, along with a pack of crayons. A copy of the construction book is also donated to the classroom or library for future enjoyment.

Companies can support this initiative through sponsorships, which include logo placement on hard hats, coloring books, crayon packets, and even the opportunity to serve as a guest reader. This program is a fantastic way to invest in the next generation and promote careers in construction.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the teachers at both schools for welcoming us into their classrooms and giving us the time to read and connect with these bright young minds. We look forward to more opportunities to inspire future builders!

Sharon chose to read her favorite story Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site to the class.