Building Futures Through Real-World Experience

By Nisa Gül

For students exploring career pathways, seeing an industry up close can make all the difference. Through virtual tours, HireME! participation, internships, and work-based learning opportunities, Titan Construction Services has been helping students better understand what careers in construction can actually look like.

As part of Skyepack’s Career+ Pathways™ network, Titan partnered on a virtual tour experience that gives students insight into industrial and commercial construction, the realities of the field, and the many pathways available after high school.

We spoke with Alex Johnston about his career journey, Titan’s work with students, and why employer involvement matters in career exploration.

Meet Alex Johnston

Alex Johnston serves as Business Development Manager at Titan Construction Services.

Construction has been part of his life from the beginning.

“Personally, construction is in my blood. One of my grandfathers was a residential builder, and the other was a metal worker.”

Alongside his interest in building, Alex also developed a passion for drawing and sketching, which naturally led him toward architecture, engineering, and eventually construction management. After college, his career path brought him to Indiana and ultimately to Titan Construction Services, where he is now in his eighth year.

Helping Students Explore the Construction Industry

Titan Construction Services partnered with Career+ Pathways™ to create a virtual tour experience that allows students to explore the construction industry in a more accessible and realistic way.

According to Alex, workforce development has become increasingly important across the industry.

“We need every tool in the toolbox so to speak that we can use to get our name out there and get in front of young folks that are looking for opportunities.”

The virtual experience was designed not only to introduce students to construction careers, but also to help them understand that there are multiple pathways to long-term success.

“College isn’t the only pathway to successful careers.”

Alex emphasized the value of field experience and helping students recognize that industries like construction need motivated young professionals who are ready to enter the workforce and continue learning on the job.

Connecting With Students at HireME!

Titan also participated in the HireME! event through Greater Lafayette Commerce, where students had the opportunity to connect directly with employers and explore internship opportunities.

Alex described this year’s event as a significant step forward.

“It was such a great time being able to discuss opportunities with many students and adults.”

He also noted the strong preparation and engagement from both students and educators during the event.

Through collaboration with Career+™, Titan was able to connect with students who were specifically interested in construction and workforce opportunities.

Image Credit: Titan Construction Services

Expanding Work-Based Learning Opportunities

Beyond career fairs and virtual exploration, Titan has also been working to create more direct training opportunities for students.

During the past school year, the company helped provide training experiences for approximately 20 local high school students.

Those experiences included:

• Jobsite exposure
• Safety training
• Equipment training
• Field-based learning opportunities

For Alex, the qualities that stand out most in students interested in construction are not complicated:

“A willingness to show up, work hard, and grow in a position.”

He also emphasized that patience and long-term growth are important parts of building a successful career.

Investing in the Community

Outside of project work, Titan Construction Services and its employees stay involved in a variety of local organizations and workforce initiatives.

Alex currently serves as Vice Chair of the Workforce 2030 Council and has also been involved with United Way initiatives in Greater Lafayette.

Titan employees also support organizations including Food Finders, Gracepoint of Rensselaer, Jasper County Economic Development, and Greater Lafayette Commerce.

Outside of work, Alex says he enjoys spending time with his family, serving through his church community, and being outdoors.

Through partnerships, training opportunities, and direct student engagement, Titan Construction Services continues helping students gain exposure to career pathways that are practical, hands-on, and connected to real workforce needs.

Bio

Nisa Gül is a Social Media Manager and Virtual Assistant at Skyepack, where she supports content creation, blog writing, and digital engagement for the Career+ Pathways™ program. She works closely with the team to transform ideas into polished, audience-ready pieces. Outside of work, she enjoys designing, painting, and spending time with friends in cozy, creative settings.