Innovative Workforce Development Program Gives Hands-On Industry Experience To The Next Generation
The National Utility Contractors Association (NUCA) and the Nutter Foundation are proud to announce a new partnership to promote “Dozer Day®,” the innovative workforce development program that has introduced thousands of young adults to the nation’s utility construction industry and a meaningful and productive future for themselves.
“This new Dozer Day partnership between NUCA and the Nutter Foundation will enrich thousands of young men and women, and give them a strong future,” said Doug Carlson, NUCA’s chief executive officer. “Dozer Day provides an unforgettable experience for children, sparking their interest in engineering, construction, and teamwork. We are fortunate that our partnership will continue the special Dozer Day experience for more children and young adults in more American towns.”
Under the agreement announced recently, NUCA National has purchased the trademark and naming rights to “Dozer Day®” and now owns the Dozer Day name and all subsidiary slogans associated with the event such as “Where Kids Drive.” NUCA has also assumed responsibility for the several existing Dozer Day events planned by NUCA Chapters and associated charitable entities. Over the next several years, NUCA will work with its Chapter network and other organizations and businesses to grow the events in untapped communities and regions, delivering this educational opportunity to thousands more.
Dozer Day events have long been associated with NUCA Chapters. Dozer Day is an event first created by the Clark County, Washington Parks Foundation in 2005. The Nutter Corporation, a large and successful Northwest excavation construction company, was a strong supporter of Dozer Days from the beginning and took over the event in 2008 as a strategic partner through their family foundation.
The Nutter Family Foundation was founded by Jerry and Renee Nutter in 2008 to support local organizations benefiting children. To date, the Foundation has given back over $2.2 million to the community. Their daughter Samantha Nutter Charlton just finalized the children’s book “Dozer Day Paves The Way,” telling the Dozer Day story through her eyes. She captures the excitement felt by children coming to the event to drive real construction equipment. Some return to the events as volunteers, and quite a few now experience their local Dozer Day representing their employers! The book is available via the Dozer Day website.
Renee Nutter served as Dozer Day’s first director in 2008. Since then, the Nutter Family Foundation has partnered with NUCA of Washington, NUCA of Eastern Washington & North Idaho, NUCA of Middle Tennessee, NUCA of Nebraska, and NUCA of the Greater Kansas City Region, among other industry organizations, to support and promote Dozer Day in their respective areas.
“Passing the shovel to NUCA National is a moment of both reflection and excitement for us at Dozer Day. This event has always been about more than just showcasing construction machinery–it’s about community, education, and inspiration. We are confident that NUCA National will carry forward our mission with the same passion and dedication. Their commitment to engaging with and uplifting communities aligns perfectly with the spirit of Dozer Day. We look forward to seeing this cherished event continue to grow and touch even more lives under NUCA’s leadership,” said Renee Nutter.
Renee Nutter is a passionate advocate for education and community development. As the founder of the Nutter Family Foundation, she is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of children and families. Nutter is the recipient of NUCA’s 2024 “We Dig America” award presented during the
association’s annual Convention & Exhibit on March 23, 2024.
“The Nutter Foundation’s Renee Nutter has been the driving force behind these exciting events, and her
support of our industry and our employees today and for the future has been inspirational. Our new
partnership will lead into our industry’s future,” concluded Carlson.
Dozer Day is a unique and exciting experience where kids get up close and personal with construction equipment. This event allows children to explore bulldozers, excavators, and other heavy machinery in a safe and educational environment. The event is a fantastic opportunity for kids to learn about the utility construction industry, discover the science behind these powerful machines, and even sit in the driver’s seat.
Dozer Day is a one-of-a-kind, hands-on workforce development event that opens other doors for its participants and the organizations who engage in it. Complimentary events held in the past have included a career day bringing together potential employers and Dozer Day student participants. Dozer Day also connects its participating company members in community engagement by giving time and resources back to local charities.