(MANITOU SPRINGS, Colo.) — At a ribbon-cutting on Thursday, Nov. 30, Manitou Springs High School students celebrated the completion of a years-long project to build home from the ground up.
Students who took part in the Manitou Springs Home Build Project dedicated two years to construct a three-bedroom, two-bath house, which was made possible by 100% donations from industry professionals. Donations of materials, expertise, and support were provided throughout the project, and Manitou Springs School District 14 (MSSD14) said the project allowed students a unique opportunity to engage with the local construction industry.
“We just know it’s such a high demand right now,” said Brad Borkowski, I.T. Education teacher at Manitou Springs High School. “People in the industry really need young employees. Average retirement age for a lot of these trades are 55. These folks are getting ready to retire, and we need a new generation to come in and fill those jobs.”
Through the project, students gained real-world experience and learned skills that will benefit them in construction careers.
Attendees at the ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday got to tour the completed home, guided by students who were involved in the construction.
The district said the funds generated from the sale of the home will be reinvested back into the program, ensuring that future generations of students can benefit from this hands-on educational experience.
