High School Students Build Home in Westland

Students from the William D. Ford Construction Tech program enjoyed a proud moment this afternoon as they showcased their newly competed home on Beatrice St in Westland. The students cut the ribbon before leading school officials, City leaders and neighbors on a tour of the home. Wayne-Westland Superintendent John Dignan stated “This is probably the best classroom we have in the district.” He added that “the students are getting to learn real skills that can transfer into their careers… We have a lot to be proud of.”

Construction began in Fall of the 2021 school year and students were able to get hands on experience from start to finish on the project. Students also had opportunities to shadow professionals in the industry as they completed plumbing, electrical and other licensed work. Now that the students are done with their job, contractors will add some finishing touches before the home is sold. The home is on the market and has a list price of $225,000.

About the Construction Technology Program

The William D. Ford Career-Tech Center offers two levels in their construction technology program. Level 1 students learn all aspects of framing including floors, walls, staircases, and roof systems. They also learn to install drywall, siding, shingles, windows, doors, baseboards, electrical, plumbing, and more. The Level 2 program allows students to actually build a residential home from the ground up or completely renovate an existing home. Students are responsible for every aspect of the construction of this home. The class is structured so the students are on site every day to develop the skills needed to be effective in any trade associated with construction. Through the course of the school year, students are trained as estimators and work in every trade that is used to build or renovate a home. The trades include; rough carpentry, trim carpentry, plumbing, HVAC, electric, drywall, masonry, cement flat-work, roofing, various types of siding and flooring. After completing this program many students continue their education in construction and take the State of Michigan Residential Contractors Licensing exam. Students who successfully complete this program may earn college credits through articulation agreements.