At Summit High School, a hands-on training program is reshaping what it means to prepare students for success beyond the classroom. Careers in Construction Colorado (CICC) is a two-year course supported by a coalition of local leaders—including the Summit County Builders Association (SCBA), The Rotary Club, The Town of Silverthorne, Pinnacle Mountain Homes, Summit Homes Construction, and Allan Guerra Architecture. Together, they’re investing in the next generation of skilled tradespeople.
Designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of construction, CICC offers practical experience in carpentry, framing, electrical work, plumbing, welding, and more. The program equips students with job-ready skills while creating new pathways to success—especially for those who may not see a traditional four-year college as the right fit.
“CICC is an intersection of values for us,” says Chris Renner, founder and CEO of The Pinnacle Companies. “It brings together the construction industry, the increasing local need for skilled labor, the importance of education, and the opportunity to empower students with an alternative path to success that doesn’t include the cost of a four-year college degree.”
In the first year, students learn construction math, tool identification, materials, and safety—earning their OSHA 10 Safety Training Certificate. They’re then introduced to tool operation and safe work practices—from measuring tapes and screwdrivers to nail guns and chop saws. In the second year, their training deepens as they take on real projects, like building theatrical sets or structural elements around the school campus.
“The curriculum is incredibly effective,” says Paul Camillo, president of SCBA. “We’ve seen students build everything from decks to modular homes. When they’re given the tools and the trust, they thrive.”
Careers in Construction Colorado currently operates in dozens of high schools across the state, reaching thousands of students each year. Locally, the program is supported by industry professionals who volunteer their time and expertise.
At Summit High, Chad Rowe, President of Construction at Pinnacle Mountain Homes, is one of several leaders helping bring the curriculum to life.
“We bring in guest speakers to show students what a career in construction really looks like,” says Rowe. “I’ve taught framing math, a safety manager came in to discuss jobsite protocols, an electrician demonstrated how to wire a wall—and there’s more to come. The idea is to show students what’s possible and awaken their curiosity.”
From plumbers and electricians to Xcel Energy line foremen and project managers, industry pros are offering students a real-world view of what a career in the trades can provide: stability, purpose, and the opportunity to live and work in the community they grew up in.
“Summit County is an expensive place to live,” Rowe says. “If we want our students to stay, we need to show them they have options—rewarding ones.”
Camillo agrees: “This is more than a class. It’s a solution. It serves students who want to be architects, engineers, and designers, as well as those who want to go straight into the trades. It’s a win for our youth, our community, and our industry.”
There are many ways to get involved—from mentoring and speaking to offering internships or job site tours. Help us build a brighter future for Summit County, one student at a time.
Contact the Summit County Builders Association to learn how you can support the Careers in Construction Colorado program today.
