Sable Homes President John Bitely presents new Cat Footwear boots to Kent Career Tech Center graduating construction class

On Friday, May 11, I had the opportunity to present 50 graduating seniors from Kent Career Tech Center with Cat Footwear boots as they prepare to take their first steps in the construction industry.

As president of Sable Homes and a member of the Home Builders Association of Greater Grand Rapids Foundation, it was an honor to present new work boots to the KCTC graduating class in construction on behalf of the HBA Foundation and Cat Footwear. It was especially memorable for me as a former KCTC student who graduated 35 years ago and now welcomes the opportunity to work with a new generation of construction workers eager to begin their new chapter.

Cat Footwear is known for manufacturing high-quality work boots that are comfortable and durable during a laborious day out in the field. During the grant presentation, the students received vouchers to claim their boots as the Cat Footwear team helped identify the best product options based on intended use. The students will be able to “wear test” their new Cat boots for 60 days, then provide feedback on their experience with the footwear. They will report back on the condition of their boots a second time a year from now.

As I’ve said before, the building industry is facing a critical labor shortage right now and there are many solid career pathways available for these students. The partnership with the HBA Foundation, KCTC and Cat Footwear to provide these work boots is an important step in supporting this valuable training program and these amazing students.