Over 700 high school students from 18 US states participated in team events for a chance to compete in the Construction Challenge from 11-15 March in Las Vegas.

After regional rallies in Georgia, New Jersey, Ohio, Texas and Wisconsin, 51 student teams will be taking part in the challenge held at the CONEXPO-CON/AGG trade show.

In the regional rallies, teams competed in three events consisting of a "debate-style" discussion about infrastructure issues; a "road warrior" segment where teams designed then selected materials to build and test a small-scale structure; and lastly, teams had to develop communication materials and programs for the construction industry.

Competition organiser, Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), says the teams are preparing for the final, where they will compete for scholarships and prizes.

"We were looking for a new way to reach young people, parents, teachers and counsellors with the variety of career opportunities the construction industry has to offer," says Al Cervero, AEM senior vice president.

He estimates that the construction industry will create over 1 million new jobs by 2012.

"At the same time many of our employees are retiring, our national infrastructure needs a dramatic facelift that will require the creativity and hard work of some of our nation's best and brightest.

"We have crumbling bridges, overcrowded roadways and aging water and wastewater systems. If we don't address these issues adequately now, we will severely compromise safety and productivity," he says.

More details on winning teams and photos can be found at www.ConstructionChallenge.org.