As a new activity this year, the campers made a metal bird feeder, while learning how to operate a metal brake. The bird feeders were made from aluminum donated by ATAS, in the red and teal colors of the camp’s logo. The girls took their feeders home at the end of the week, as a memento of their camp experience. Thanks to Tim Coughlan, Technical Service Advisor, Kevin Klersy, CAD Draftsman, Julie Wheeland, Inside Technical Salesperson, and Tyler Csanadi, Inside Technical Salesperson, for acting as instructors this year.  

For the Northeast Ohio camp, the girls learned how to install standing seam metal roofing and metal shingles. ATAS’ Tim Coughlan, and Dave Willard, Midwest District Sales Manager, volunteered as instructors for that camp. The Phoenix campers also learned how to install metal roofing, and they toured ATAS’ manufacturing facility in Mesa, AZ. Thanks to Kristee Day, Inside Technical Salesperson, Missy Wright, Office Service Assistant, and Jason Kroboth, Plant Manager, for helping with the tour.  

Throughout the week, the campers learn many skills, including carpentry, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, roofing, tiling, painting, flooring, and window installation. The field trips allow them to visit the offices of an architect and/or contractor, a jobsite, or a building products manufacturing facility.  In the past, campers have learned how metal roofing and wall cladding, cabinetry, millwork, and industrial valves are made.

Lee Ann M. Slattery, Sales Support Manager for ATAS, who is now a director on the board of the Lehigh Valley Let’s Build Construction Camp for Girls, stated, “Although I’m involved in several trade associations and events throughout the year, the Let’s Build Camp is always a favorite. It’s so rewarding to be part of something that not only teaches girls some important life skills, whether they pursue a career in our industry or not, but also, and more importantly, helps to build their confidence. Some of the campers start the week a bit shy and unsure, but most end the week excited and energized, embracing what they’ve learned and the friendships they’ve formed. One of the highlights of the week is when campers wire a wall light within the structure they have built. When they flip the switch and the bulb lights up, they are amazed that they made that happen.  Another highlight is the end of camp celebration, when their family members come to camp to view the structures their girls have built.”

ATAS looks forward to their continued involvement and support of the Let’s Build camps. With workforce development being a concern for many local employers, events like this are important to build awareness of fulfilling careers within the design, construction, and manufacturing industries.