A young participant operates heavy equipment under professional supervision during the Big Dig at the Boone County Fairgrounds. Photo provided | BIA

Northern Kentucky kids will have the opportunity to get behind the wheel of some heavy-duty construction equipment— with adult supervision, of course.

Big Dig 2026, a hands-on construction event for kids, is set for March 28, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Boone County Fairgrounds. According to a press release, more than 20 pieces of equipment, including excavators and skid steers, will be available for participants to use throughout the day.

The event is hosted by the Enzweiler Building Institute and the Building Industry Association of Northern Kentucky. Organizers say the event aims to introduce children to careers in construction and skilled trades as the demand for workers in those fields continues to rise across Kentucky.

Brian Miller, president of the Enzweiler Building Institute, said hands-on experiences can help introduce young people to construction careers.

“Big Dig is about giving kids the opportunity to experience construction in a hands-on way,” Miller said in a news release. “When young people can climb into a piece of equipment and see how it works, it sparks curiosity and helps them realize the incredible opportunities that exist in the construction industry.”

Tickets are available online in advance, with a limited number expected to be sold at the gate. Additional information and ticket registration are available here.

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