Enticing students into the industry before they make future career decisions is another ongoing effort, and conveying the fun side of the job is one approach. “Our members say that they have the best toys and the biggest trucks, and they’ve got the coolest drills and that kind of thing,” she quips. “But in reality, our members legitimately enjoy what they’re doing. They’re having fun out there. So, if we can share that message and encourage those interested in the trades to consider working underground, I think that we’re going to be better overall.” LOOKING AHEAD In the coming years, Hackney says the Wisconsin Underground Contractors Association remains focused on engaging youth in the underground trades. “One of our number one priorities is to accomplish the goal of getting to our youth as they’re starting to make their career decisions, and increasing the number of individuals who are interested in getting involved in the underground trades and the infrastructure specifically,” she imparts. The organization will also continue its efforts to enhance safety measures, specifically around locating existing underground infrastructure. “We want to ensure that our members, our contractors, and those in the area where the work is being done, remain safe by utilizing technology whenever possible, working very closely with the utilities, and trying to make that process better because it’s been quite challenging in the last 5 to 10 years,” she continues. Fostering strong alliances with other trade organizations, while working to strengthen collaboration within the industry will also be top of mind. “We want to work together to utilize the workforce that does exist, just like our actual contractors within our organization support one another,” Hackney asserts. “We want to lean heavily on all of the trades that go into making our society work, to promote not only safety but also accomplishing the jobs that need to be accomplished.” 32 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
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