COMAL ISD CONSTRUCTION TRADES PROGRAM.
A partnership between the Greater New Braunfels Home Builders Association and Comal ISD, the program brings together high school students and local construction industry pros to bridge the gap between education and industry.
Students participating in the Comal ISD Career and Technical Education (CTE) program embark on a journey of discovery, learning everything from carpentry and electrical work to project management and best building practices. This comprehensive curriculum not only enriches their academic experience but also lays the foundation for successful careers in the construction sector.
What sets our program apart is the real-world exposure students gain through internships and mentorship provided by us at the Greater New Braunfels Home Builders Association. We proudly partner with local business owners who open their doors to our students, providing them with unparalleled opportunities to apply their skills in a professional setting. This hands-on experience, coupled with guidance from seasoned mentors, ensures that our students not only graduate with knowledge but also with a network of industry connections.
Casino Night
GNBHBA hosts this annual fundraising event where all proceeds benefit the Comal Trades Program. This event raises thousands of dollars each year and these funds are used to purchase tools & equipment for the students to use on the job, as well as any necessary classroom supplies for the CTE teacher to use at the high school.
Our 2025 Casino Night is masquerade-themed and will be held on February 13, 2025, at Chandelier at Gruene. Use the button below to register for the event, become a sponsor, or donate to our auction.
Signing Day
The highlight of our year is when these high school graduates take center stage on Signing Day. Instead of college commitment letters, these students sign job offers with local construction-industry businesses. After completing their technical training at school, and internships with local businesses, they embark on exciting careers in the trades.
It’s a moment of achievement symbolized by not only a job offer but a commitment to building futures. Use the button below to contact us about enrolling your company in this program.
Comal ISD - CTE
The Comal Trades Program is a partnership between the GNBHBA and the Career and Technical Education (CTE) department of Comal ISD.
CTE programs offer students challenging academic standards and relevant technical knowledge and skills needed to prepare them for further education and careers in current or emerging professions. CTE delivers real-world options and skills to students for college and career goals while allowing them to explore career options and personal passions through authentic and rigorous learning.
Get Involved
Programs like this exist and succeed because of the support from our community. Your donations are tax-deductible and directly benefit this vital program that introduces the trades to our next generation.
FAQs
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The trades are any profession related to the building and construction industry. These include careers such as: plumbing, electrical, HVAC, roofing, welding, woodworking, home building, etc.
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With the need for skilled laborers in the US at an all-time high, now is the perfect time to jumpstart a future career in the trades. With hands-on training in the classroom, coupled with the opportunity to work and earn money while in school, the Comal ISD Trades students don’t have to wait until after graduation to start on their career path.
These professions are known for having high wages with no college requirements. Many do require a certification (requirements vary by state and profession) and the Comal Trades Program gives these students a head start on the education and training required to obtain a certification.
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Half of payroll workers in construction earn more than $49,030/year and the top 25% make at least $68,690/year according to the 2019 Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey data and analysis by NAHB. In comparison, the U.S. median wage across all industries is $39,810, while the top quartile (top 25%) makes at least $64,240.
Tradespersons who end up owning their own construction industry company have unlimited earning potential.
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The Comal Trades Program can start as early as middle school for in-class skills training to see if the students are interested in the construction industry. The paid internship component is for students in their senior year at either Canyon High School or Canyon Lake High School. The internship program will last the duration of the school year, with Signing Day occurring in early to mid May at the end of the senior year. Many students will have the option to stay with their employer during the summer to earn additional income and training.
Requirements include: Must provide own transportation to work locations and must have a valid Driver’s License. Students will be interviewed by the prospective employer before job placement and must remain in good standing with them or risk termination. Above that, students wishing to enter one of these trades should have a strong work ethic, a desire to learn and grow, the ability to be coachable, and a positive attitude.
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We’re actively looking for companies to support our mission, and your involvement can come in many forms. You can: be a guest speaker in the classroom, hire a student for the internship component, host an on-location field trip, attend and/or sponsor our annual fundraising event – Casino Night, donate to our Casino Night auction, donate tools and supplies, or serve on a committee. The Comal Trades Program is a 501c3, so any contributions are tax deductible. Contact our Program Coordinator at leslie.evans@mooresupply.com to get involved.
PRESS
THANK YOU TO THESE COMPANIES
who’ve supported the Comal Trades Program through donations, internships, sponsorships, and more:
MISSION STATEMENT
Our mission is clear: to introduce high school students to the dynamic world of construction trades and foster a deep understanding of the invaluable skills within this industry. By combining academic knowledge with hands-on experience, we aim to equip students with the tools they need to thrive in a variety of construction-related careers.
CONTACT US.
Leslie Evans, Program Coordinator
leslie.evans@mooresupply.com