Cenla Trades Day · Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2026 · Westside Regional Library Details →
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About the Chapter

A student-centered nonprofit opening doors to careers in the skilled trades.

Our mission

Connecting Louisiana students to skilled trades careers.

The Student Chapter of Central Louisiana is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Our mission is to introduce high school students to the building trades, give them hands-on experience, build their leadership skills, and help them take the first step into a career.

We do this by working side by side with schools, local builders, trade unions, credit unions, utilities, and community businesses. Students gain exposure to real careers, and industry partners get a direct line to the next generation of skilled workers.

Students carrying a plywood panel during a chapter building project
What guides us

Our values

Learn by doing

The best way to understand a trade is to try it. Every program puts tools, materials, and professionals in front of students.

Community first

We are built by local people for local students. Our partners and sponsors are our neighbors.

Student leadership

Students serve as officers and ambassadors, learning responsibility and teamwork along the way.

Pathways, not promises

We open doors: career connections, scholarships, and mentors. Students walk through them on their own merit.

Our schools

Partner high schools

The chapter currently works with high schools in Central Louisiana, including:

  • Tioga High School – student engagement, service, and career development in the building industry.
  • Rapides High School – student participation in chapter events, mentoring, and career development.

Interested in bringing the Student Chapter to your campus? We would love to hear from you.

Start a chapter at your school

Chapter students in front of the chapter parade float
Leadership

Board of Directors

Our volunteer board guides the chapter's programs, finances, and partnerships.

Michael Bolen

President

Randy Tarver

Vice President

Tim Dousay

Treasurer

Kim Watts

Secretary

Caroline Willis

Board Member

Shane Ponthieux

Board Member

Help a Louisiana student build a future.

Whether you give your time, your trade, or your support, you open a door for a student who is ready to work.

Get InvolvedDonate or Sponsor