Power in Partnership Offers “Full Circle” Moment for Barry McDonald
When Adams Construction Owner and President Barry McDonald recently visited the Mayfield/Graves County Area Technology Center (ATC) to speak with students in the advanced carpentry program, he did so in the same classroom where he studied architectural drawing more than 50 years ago, providing a “full circle” moment that served as a powerful example for students of where their technical skills can lead.
The visit was coordinated by the Power in Partnership program, a partnership between the ATC and Graves County Economic Development (GCED) that brings professionals to the classroom to share their expertise and offer career advice.
“It was encouraging to see the number of students participating in the advanced carpentry classes,” said McDonald. “They are the future workforce of our industry, and I hope I offered meaningful direction today."
Adams Construction, Inc. was founded by Bill Adams as a commercial and industrial contracting company. They have built a reputation for quality workmanship in a timely manner and have served many of their clients for more than 40 years. Today they handle commercial, industrial, and residential projects with values ranging from $100,000 to $20 million. The firm serves as a design/build contractor and also provides construction management services. McDonald, a graduate of Mayfield High School, joined the firm in 1985 and today is owner, president, and project manager.
"Barry Mac emphasized to the students the importance of good attendance, the demand for workers in construction trades, and how the tools the students are utilizing in our shop and skills they're picking up are the exact same things he asks of his employees on their job sites,” said Josh Heisner, Principal, Mayfield/Graves ATC. “We appreciate Barry taking the time to speak to students, and to do so in the exact same room where he took an architectural drawing class while he was a Mayfield High School student."
“Power in Partnership offers so many unique opportunities for our students to not only learn from talented, experienced people, but also to get to know them, hear their stories, and take inspiration from their accomplishments,” said GCED President Jason Lemle. “We are tremendously grateful to Barry McDonald and all the generous business and industry leaders who make this program a success.”
The ATC’s carpentry program prepares students for employment in the residential and commercial construction industry. Students are involved in blueprint reading, layout, fabrication, walls, floors, ceilings, and structure roofs. Students use various materials including wood, metal, plastics, fiberglass, Styrofoam, and concrete and learn about the care and safe use of hand tools, power tools, and equipment.
The ATC is located on the Mayfield High School campus and educates students from Mayfield Independent Schools, Graves County High School and Carlisle County High School.