Poettker Construction is continuing its investment in the next generation of construction professionals by awarding grants and scholarships through its NextGen community outreach program.
The Breese, Illinois-based contractor recently presented six $500 grants to elementary schools and four $500 scholarships to high school seniors, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to workforce development, STEM education and community engagement. The NextGen program supports hands-on learning while introducing students to careers in construction at an early age.
“At Poettker, we believe early exposure to construction, along with hands-on learning, inspires students and supports the future of our industry and communities,” says Jon Carroll, EVP and COO at Poettker Construction. “Through NextGen, we’re blessed to support schools with resources that enhance student learning and to recognize the next generation of construction professionals. These grants and scholarships reflect our commitment to making a meaningful impact where we live and work.”
This year’s grants will fund a variety of educational initiatives, including accessible learning environments, STEM programming and student support services. Recipients include Aviston Elementary School, which will enhance its inclusive library for students with physical, communication and developmental disabilities, and Central School District 104, which will expand its Girls Emerging as Women Leaders store to provide essential toiletries and supplies for students in need.
Additional grants will support Science Olympiad programs at Litchfield Elementary School and Pana Elementary School, STEM kits for kindergartners and first graders at Litchfield Early Childhood Center, and a STEM bridge-building project at Richland County Early Learning Center.
Poettker also recognized four graduating seniors pursuing careers connected to the construction industry. Scholarship recipients include Ethan Habermehl and Owen Menke of Columbia High School, Titan Hires of Litchfield High School and Zachary Duffie of Freeburg High School. The students plan to study civil engineering, construction management and business management at colleges and universities throughout the region.
Beyond grants and scholarships, NextGen introduces students to the construction industry through project site tours, hands-on STEM activities, drone demonstrations and participation in milestone events such as groundbreakings and ribbon cuttings. The program reflects Poettker’s broader strategy of helping build the industry’s future workforce by connecting classroom learning with real-world construction experiences.
Founded in 1980, Poettker Construction provides construction management, design-build, general contracting and self-perform services across a diverse range of markets. The company says its emphasis on long-term relationships is reflected in the fact that 88 percent of its revenue comes from repeat clients.
