October is Careers in Construction Month, a nationwide campaign to increase public awareness of construction careers and inspire the next generation of construction professionals. For the past seven years, construction-related skilled trades have been the hardest roles to fill despite their high pay, low debt training, and in-demand skills. Kirkwood Community College is responding to the construction employee shortage by providing local high school students the opportunity to begin early training through the ACE Academy. Students earn twelve hours of free college credit while still in high school, gaining a head start on their college education and potentially reducing the time and cost required to complete a degree. The ACE Academy places a strong emphasis on experiential learning. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, allowing them to engage in hands-on projects. Through guest speakers, industry tours, and networking events, students gain valuable insights into their future career options. To learn more about College Credit in High School opportunities at Kirkwood Washington Regional, find the link with this news story at KCIIradio.com.