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FORGE announced today that October has been proclaimed Careers in Construction Month (CCIM) in Mississippi by Governor Tate Reeves and Lt. Governor Delbert Hosemann, underscoring the vital role the construction industry plays in the state’s economy and highlighting career pathways for students and job-seekers.

Throughout October, FORGE will join AccelerateMS, Build Mississippi, and National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER) to raise awareness of the diverse, high-demand careers available across the skilled trades. Together, these partners are advancing hands-on learning, industry-recognized credentials, and connections between employers, educators, students, and families.

As part of the celebration, FORGE will spotlight real-world, careers-in-action experiences—including its signature FORGE Your Path Career Expo at East Mississippi Community College’s Communiversity—where more than 2,200 8th-grade students from across the region engage with interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and heavy equipment displays that introduce in-demand construction careers. (Event specifics will be released in a separate media advisory.)

“We’re honored to celebrate Careers in Construction Month alongside our state partners and industry leaders,” said Melinda Lowe, Executive Director of FORGE. “These proclamations shine a spotlight on Mississippi’s builders and craft professionals—and on the next generation who will quite literally help construct our communities’ future.”

Mississippi’s construction sector offers strong wage potential, rapid advancement, and meaningful work that builds local infrastructure and drives economic growth. By aligning industry needs with K-12, community college, and workforce programming, FORGE and its partners are helping students discover rewarding career paths while addressing the state’s skills gap.