Meridian training and recruiting event to help connect trades with workers

Various construction, service and other organizations are joining forces to help fill positions in the trades.

On April 29 and 30, from 8 a.m.-4 p.m., the fourth annual Construction Combine training and recruiting event will be held in the parking lot of The Home Depot at 1100 S. Progress Avenue in Meridian.

The event provides training and recruiting to help students “learn basic skills from different trades in the construction industry,” a statement read.

Idaho Associated General Contractors is holding the event in partnership with Idaho Veterans Chamber of Commerce, Paul Davis Restoration of Idaho, ACE Mentor Idaho and The Home Depot Foundation, which donates project materials, event space and volunteers.

According to a release, community members and contractors volunteer their time and skills, along with donating funds to help the students and give back to the community.

Day one, which is referred to as “Trades Day,” will give students the opportunity to participate in hands-on demonstrations, giving them the ability to learn about framing, concrete, electrical, plumbing, drywall, flooring and siding.

The second day is scheduled to be focused on applying the skills learned the day before by having students work with area contractors to build 8-foot-by-10-foot sheds. The sheds will be donated to local veterans. The students will also be able to interview with contractors for open positions.

“Idaho State University’s Continuing Education and Workforce Training developed this model to help reduce the shortage of skilled workers in the construction industry,” the release for the event stated. “This collaborative effort between educational institutions, local contractors and community members provides an opportunity for students to gain experience in the trades and possible employment with the local contractor volunteer instructors.”

The event began in 2018 in the Pocatello/Chubbuck area with 16 contractors, businesses and organizations and more than 50 participants. This year, the Construction Combine will take place in five cities in Idaho: Meridian, Twin Falls, Idaho Falls, Pocatello and Rathdrum. It is the fourth year in Meridian, and organizers are anticipating more than 150 students from throughout the Treasure Valley.

For more information, visit https://web.idahoagc.org/events/2025-Construction-Combine-Trades-Day-6019/details