NORTH REDDING, Mass., Oct. 8 -- When third generation electrician Andy Winslow went looking for a lifelike action figure representing the classic American tradesperson, there was nothing available. With a tradesman's work ethic and eye for detail, Winslow developed Construction Jack.

The Construction Jack Great American Tradesman series of action figures -- plumbers, electricians, carpenters and painters -- is for children ages 5 and up and for adults with an affinity for the trades. The toys are available online at http://www.constructionjack.com (for $19.99 each plus $5.00 shipping and handling).

"When I was developing Construction Jack, I had in mind two groups I thought would really love it," says inventor Winslow. "Kids -- who can never get enough of construction themes -- and the families of tradespeople, a group whose contributions to America have for too long been overlooked and underappreciated."

Winslow says that one of the most important aspects of Construction Jack is its nonviolent, constructive nature -- a healthy alternative to the destructive themes common in many children's toys. Construction Jack allows "boys to be boys" by encouraging them to use their imagination, channeling energy into constructive activities.

And the timing couldn't be more perfect: "Bob the Builder's" omnipresence amongst toddlers has created a vast market of boys and girls who are now ready for a more lifelike, classic action figure.

Construction Jack action figures are made of high quality materials and feature incredibly lifelike equipment: the electrician's pipe bender, the plumber's blowtorch, the painter's roll brush and the carpenter's hammer and saw. Construction Jack is available at many retail outlets, including Zany Brainy locations in 32 states.