Hands on demonstrations and youth advocacy highlight impact of workforce training programs across the state
Young people from Job Point’s YouthBuild and similar programs across Missouri took their skills, determination, and voices to the State Capitol on April 21, delivering a powerful demonstration of what is possible when opportunity youth are given a different kind of love, support, and encouragement.
Hosted by the Missouri YouthBuild Coalition in Jefferson City, the day brought together trainees, staff, and partners from across the state for hands‑on construction demonstrations, youth‑led advocacy, and statewide collaboration. Throughout the event, participants engaged directly with policymakers while showcasing the real‑world skills they are developing through YouthBuild programs in Columbia, St. Joseph and Cape Girardeau, MO.
Just down the street from the Capitol grounds, trainees spent their morning in action, constructing the framework of walls and portable chairs in teams—tangible examples of the industry‑aligned training that prepares them for in‑demand careers. At the end of the day, they tacked the walls together to create a room, a powerful visual, showing how trainees from across the state had come together to create something.
“It was a very good day. We had to build the chairs over there. I did a little measurement, cutting, all of that,” said one Job Point YouthBuild student.
The hands‑on experience highlighted not only technical skills, but also the importance of teamwork and communication in a professional setting.
“Working together as a team, putting things together was exquisite. Communication was key,” another student shared.
Beyond the builds, the event created space for young people to share their personal journeys. Many YouthBuild participants have faced significant barriers, including interruptions in education and limited access to employment opportunities. Through programs like Job Point’s YouthBuild, they are reconnecting with education, gaining workforce certifications, and building pathways to meaningful careers.
For students, the experience of participating in a statewide event—and demonstrating their abilities in such a visible setting—was both affirming and inspiring.
“I loved it! I had a great time. We built chairs. It was a good experience,” said one participant.
Morton is passionate about connecting youth with opportunities to grow beyond their comfort zone, enhance their leadership skills and change their future.
“At its core, this day is about visibility—showing lawmakers, community leaders, and the public what these young people are capable of,” said Jerrell Morton, Director of Job Point’s YouthBuild. “Our students aren’t just learning skills—they’re building confidence, leadership, and a vision for their future.”
Hosted by the Missouri YouthBuild Coalition, the Capitol event also highlighted the broader need for investment in workforce development initiatives, like YouthBuild, at the state level. Across Missouri, employers continue to report unfilled jobs and growing skills gaps. YouthBuild programs are helping to address that challenge by equipping young adults with practical training, work experience, and the tools needed to succeed in high‑demand industries such as construction, healthcare, IT, and manufacturing.
For Job Point, participation in the event reinforced its long‑standing commitment to empowering opportunity youth to overcome barriers, reclaim their education and achieve self‑sufficiency and economic stability.
“It’s a great experience. I love Job Point,” another student reflected.
By combining education, hands‑on training, and leadership development, Job Point continues to help young people realize their full potential and tap into the magic of possibility.
As the day concluded, trainees left with a new sense of confidence after meeting with their State Representatives, Senators and their staffers and standing up on the Missouri House and Senate floors. From putting their newly strengthened skills to work to gaining the experience of advocating for themselves and their peers, these young people took an important step toward becoming the next generation of Missouri’s workforce and community leaders.
