WEST ALLIS, Wis (SPECTRUM NEWS)- Nationwide, there is a shortage of people entering the construction trades. One recent study found that 70% of contractors struggle to meet deadlines simply because they can’t find enough people to hire. It is something a competition being held at the NARI Milwaukee Spring Home Improvement Show is hoping to change.

Students from across Wisconsin are coming together Friday and Saturday to take part in the Skills USA Wisconsin competition. Student teams have two days to build a small one room house, complete with a door, window, and plumbing fixtures. Students take part, such as those from Barneveld High School, say it’s a unique opportunity to really explore what it is like to work in the construction trades.

“This is something special. You can really delve into the trades, so many different things in this competition with the trades. In general, you can really figure out what you are interested in.” says Barneveld student Nicole Elfering

If you would like to check out the students’ progress, the work is on display at the NARI Home Show this weekend.