As the nation celebrates Careers in Construction Month, one industry veteran is using her retirement to help build the next generation of skilled tradespeople.

Debbie Karle, a retired Construction Manager from Jostin Construction, has joined Building Value, a Cincinnati-based nonprofit social enterprise powered by Easterseals Redwood, to mentor trainees entering the construction industry.

Karle, who earned her bachelor’s degree in construction management from the University of Cincinnati in 1985, has spent nearly 40 years managing commercial and historic projects across the region. Now, she’s bringing her expertise to Building Value’s Construction Training Program, where participants learn hands-on skills in deconstruction, salvage, and jobsite operations.

“Construction has been a wonderful career for me,” said Karle. “I want to help others see that it’s not just a job — it’s a profession that gives you pride, purpose, and the chance to leave your mark on the world. Every building you touch tells a story.”

As the construction industry faces ongoing workforce shortages, particularly in the skilled trades, Karle sees mentoring as a way to give back and keep the field thriving.

“I’ve seen incredible craftsmanship over the years, and I want to help preserve that quality,” she said. “There’s so much knowledge in this field that deserves to be passed on. Volunteering is my way of doing that — and staying active, learning, and contributing to something that matters.”

Building Value’s Construction Training Program equips participants with OSHA-10 certification, power tool skills, and real-world construction experience through community-based deconstruction projects. After completing the program, graduates go on to full-time jobs with leading construction companies in the region.

Karle’s mentorship comes full circle: the same passion for construction that started with her co-op at UC is now helping others start their own careers during a month dedicated to building the workforce of tomorrow.

“Someone once told me that everyone who touches a project will one day drive past it and say, ‘I helped build that,’” Karle said. “That’s incredibly true—and that’s the pride I hope these trainees will carry with them.”