Mentoring A Girl In Construction

  THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION and MISSOURI WOMEN IN TRADES PRESENT...MAGIC

MAGIC Summer Camp is designed to offer high school girls the opportunity to learn about the countless avenues of employment for women in the construction industry and to engage them via hands-on training in the basic skills of carpentry, electrical, and welding.  This opportunity to perform the challenging tasks of basic construction skills, and to experience the exhilaration of successfully performing difficult tasks builds their self-confidence and self-image.

During this one-week day camp the girls will make new friends, learn new talents, and explore career options that they have never considered.  They are introduced to successful women working in all phases of construction and are encouraged to ask questions and learn as much as they can about various job opportunities in the construction industry.

The 2010 camp is being hosted by the Carpenters’ Joint Apprenticeship Program’s Training School (CJAP) the week of July 26th.  Applications for the 2010 Camp will be available starting in February, call us at (314)963-3200 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to receive an application.  Check out media coverage of last year’s camp at  http://www.kmov.com/greatday/community/events/?nvid=381248&shu=1

Listed below is a summary of the weekly activities. 

Camp is led by Lynda Mueller Drendel, instructor at the Carpenters’ Joint Apprenticeship Program Training School, and Jean Gray, carpenter and other tradeswomen.

Monday - Safety and Tape Measure Reading

Summer camp rules, activities, and forms will be covered and an icebreaker will be offered for girls to get to know one another.  Safety activities will include hands-on training in personal protective equipment and safety rules for the week.  Then is time to head to the shop to learn about reading a tape measure and build a stool. 

Tuesday - Carpentry

The girls will participate in a power tool demonstration learning basic skills using various hand and power tools. Girls will cut, assemble, and decorate a wooden toolbox they will use throughout the week’s activities. 

Wednesday - Electrical

Campers will learn basic wiring by installing a switch, light and receptacle project.  They will also assemble and decorate a lamp to take home.

Thursday - Welding

Campers will learn the basics of welding.  Daily activities will include learning to use a cutting torch and welding.  Camper will weld a project to take home.

Friday – Open Shop & Completion Ceremony

Girls have the opportunity to create their own projects, try out tools or finish up the weeks projects. Camp will conclude with a catered luncheon that will include local dignitaries, parents, invited guests, and school administrators. A special summer camp video featuring the girls at work will be presented. Girls will receive certificates of completion.