Buddy Malone, Business Manager of the Parkersburg-Marietta Building and Construction Trades Council (PMBTC), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the region’s workforce development programs and the state of the construction industry along the Ohio and West Virginia border.
With thirty years of experience in the building trades, Malone brings a wealth of knowledge to the conversation. He was a member of the Iron Workers Union before changing his career path and joining the Millwrights Union. He served in leadership in both unions before eventually becoming the Business Manager of PMBTC, which covers eight counties in Ohio and eight counties in West Virginia.
Malone highlighted a workforce development program in New Lexington, Ohio, that's changing the curriculum for pre-K through 12th grade. This program takes place every Friday afternoon and focuses on workforce development activities and introducing students to various career paths and essential skills. Since its beginning in 2018, the program has had a positive impact on the students' lives. Malone said that graduation rates increased from 78 percent in 2018 to 95 percent in 2024, and disciplinary issues decreased. Malone attributed the improvements to the collaboration between students from different backgrounds.
Malone said the program's holistic approach is reason for most of its success. Students can learn about social media marketing, use drones and experience medical training, so they are more engaged in their education. Malone added that students are becoming more employable after they graduate, which is more important now when talent is difficult to find across most industries. Promoting the trades and workforce development programs is key to building a stronger labor movement, and he believes this program should be replicated nationwide.
Listen to the full episode to hear more from Malone about the state of the construction industry and the programs shaping its future.