The Kern County Builders Exchange is hosting a fair at Bakersfield College today to give local contractors the upper hand on several school construction projects. Executive Director Mikin Plummer says it’s better for everyone to hire from the neighborhood. He also said they’re putting on the event so tradesmen here can compete with out-of-town firms. Schools are looking for plumbers and HVAC companies. Over 20 school districts with $1.5-Billion in projects will be at the fair; it starts at 9:00 this morning at BC’s gym.

Kelli Pierce