The Sanford Contractors Construction Academy has been recognized with a 2026 Carolinas AGC Community Impact Award for its contributions to student career development and workforce readiness.

Presented annually by Carolinas AGC, the Community Impact Award recognizes companies that make meaningful contributions to their communities through service, leadership, and investment. This recognition reflects the collective efforts of the students, educators, mentors, workforce development partners, and community supporters who have helped shape the Construction Academy since its inception.

Created to introduce high school students to careers in construction, the Construction Academy combines classroom instruction, college credit opportunities, mentorship, and paid hands-on jobsite experience. Through the program, students earn college credit, work on active jobsites, learn from experienced mentors, and gain firsthand exposure to careers in the construction industry. For nine weeks, students work alongside experienced construction professionals while exploring the many career opportunities available within the industry.

Since launching in 2023, 34 students have completed the program, many of whom have continued their involvement with Sanford Contractors through employment and apprenticeship opportunities.

In May, Sanford Contractors welcomed the largest Construction Academy class to date with the annual signing ceremony, celebrating the selection of 14 students from more than 90 applicants representing schools across Lee and Harnett Counties.

“We are honored to receive this recognition, but more importantly, we are grateful for the many partners who have invested in the success of this program,” said Zac West, Development Director for Sanford Contractors. “This award reflects what can happen when schools, businesses, and communities work together to create meaningful opportunities for our young people.”

Sanford Contractors extends its sincere appreciation to:

Central Carolina Community College, Lee County Schools, Western Harnett High School, Grace Christian, Ascend Leadership Academy, Central Carolina Academy, ApprenticeshipNC, and Carolinas AGC for their partnership. Their continued support has helped connect students with real-world career opportunities while building a stronger pipeline of future construction professionals.

This recognition reflects a shared commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for students and strengthening the future workforce in our communities.