As the job market evolves, the construction industry stands out as a critical sector poised for significant growth. With projected construction and extraction employment growth of 11 percent by 2026, as outlined by the United States Department of Labor, now is the perfect time for students to consider a career in the field. One program that is preparing the next generation of workers is the Mining, Asphalt, Concrete & Construction Technology (MACC Tech) program.

What is MACC Tech?

Designed for junior and senior high schoolers, the MACC Tech program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in various construction-related fields. With the backing of trade organizations such as the Ohio Aggregates & Industrial Minerals Association (OAIMA), the innovative program recognizes the fundamental role that aggregates and industrial minerals play in construction and is committed to addressing the industry’s growing employment needs.

Graduates of the MACC Tech program receive a credential that prepares them for immediate employment in diverse career paths, including roles in mining, asphalt production, concrete technology, and construction management. The program provides hands-on experience and specialized training that enables students to step directly into high-demand, well-paying jobs. In Ohio alone, the construction and extraction industry employs over 185,300 people, with an average wage of $61,020—exceeding both the national average and median salary for all occupations.

The Importance of Aggregates

A remarkable aspect of the MACC Tech program is its emphasis on aggregates—essential materials like sand, gravel, and crushed stone that are the cornerstone of construction projects.

Aggregates are not just significant in quantity; they are critical to infrastructure, supporting everything from roads and highways to buildings and bridges. For instance, a mile of a typical four-lane interstate highway requires about 38,000 tons of aggregate base. By emphasizing the importance of aggregates, the MACC Tech program prepares students to understand the foundational elements of construction work.

Beyond personal career development, the MACC Tech program also aims to address broader economic needs. Preparing a skilled workforce directly supports the demands of the construction industry and contributes to the vitality of Ohio’s economy. The initiative reflects a commitment to sustainable practices, recognizing that aggregates and industrial minerals are indispensable to our daily lives—each Ohioan uses approximately 11 tons of these materials every year.

If you can’t grow it, you have to mine it.

That quote captures the essence of why pursuing a career in the construction sector is critical in our increasingly infrastructure-dependent world. Construction careers are diverse and rewarding, offering young adults the opportunity to make tangible contributions to the development of their communities and the economy.

Looking to the future, it’s clear that programs such as MACC Tech are essential in shaping a well-prepared, skilled labor force that can meet the challenges of tomorrow’s construction industry. For students eager to embark on a promising career path, the Mining, Asphalt, Concrete & Construction Technology program is an incredible opportunity to build a prosperous future.

If you or someone you know is a high school student interested in construction, consider taking part in the MACC Tech program. With the proper credentials and training, a fulfilling career in the construction industry awaits. Learn more here.