SAGINAW - There are pros and cons about working in construction, and some school career counselors tend to focus on the negatives - if they mention the trades as a choice at all.

In an attempt to put the industry's best foot forward, the Bay Area Association of Mechanical Contractors and Plumbers and Steam Fitters Local 85 members pitched piping as a career choice to about 100 kids during the Swan Valley Middle School Career Fair.

The workers and contractors brought drawings, hard hats, tool belts and demonstrated the use of levels and how to thread copper pipe. The presenters talked about estimating projects, and how important their work is to getting vital water, sanitation and fire protection services to homes, schools, hospitals and businesses.

They also talked about training and the financial and professional opportunities the industry offers. Then the seventh and eighth graders were given handout materials to reinforce what they'd seen.

Volunteering at the event were Andy Baranic, president of the contractors' association, purchasing agent Judy Alere of John E. Green Co.'s Saginaw office, and Bob and Brian Schneider of Green and Local 85.

Schools are increasingly talking about careers to younger students, even at the elementary levels, said Swan Valley counselor Sandy Kreager.

"We didn't want a career fair where they only talk about college, that's not realistic," she said. "I've been told over and over about the availability of jobs in the skilled trades, and that there's money to be made. The kids need to know about that. And the presenters did a wonderful job. The students really liked the hands-on demonstrations."