High School Construction Trades Program Builds Foundations for the Future
Members of the Oskaloosa Buildings and Trades program stop for a group picture at their most recent open house.
“We started back in 2003 and have built a house almost every year since,” said David Bower, the high school teacher who leads the program. “Our first project was on North D Street, and since then, we’ve built homes and other structures in various locations around the community.”
The program’s projects include not only homes but also significant contributions to the local softball field complex, where students constructed dugouts, a press box, and a concession stand. These real-world projects provide students with practical experience that cannot be replicated in a traditional classroom setting.
“This program offers students the chance to work on actual construction projects, which provides them with real-life experience,” the Bower explained. “Twenty years from now, they can drive by with their kids and say, ‘I built this house.’ You can’t get any more real-life than that.”
The benefits of the program extend beyond immediate job prospects. While some students choose to enter the workforce directly, others use the skills and experience gained to further their education. Former students have pursued careers in architecture, veterinary medicine, and various trades, including electrical apprenticeships. The program also offers college credits, providing a head start for those continuing their education at institutions like Indian Hills Community College.
“Whether students want to go to a four-year college, a trade school, or start working right after high school, this program gives them a solid foundation,” the Bower noted. “And even if they decide that construction isn’t for them, the skills they learn are valuable for any homeowner.”
The program not only equips students with practical skills but also instills confidence and a sense of accomplishment. Students leave with the knowledge that they can tackle significant projects, whether in their professional lives or personal endeavors.
“Even if they don’t make a career out of it, the experience is still beneficial,” the Bower said. “Everyone needs to live somewhere, and knowing how to make repairs or improvements can be incredibly useful.”
Lucas Toubekis, a junior participating in the program, shared his thoughts on the experience. “I thought it looked fun and a little brain break back in the day,” he said. “It’s made it obvious that I do like doing this stuff. I’m just not sure if I would do it as a full-time career or not.”
When asked if he would encourage other students to join, Lucas was enthusiastic. “Definitely, if you have any interest at all, just take it,” he advised. “Even if you don’t feel like you want to do that as a lifestyle, the skills you learn are very useful later on.”
Lucas plans to continue with the program next year, looking forward to new projects and changes.
As the program continues to grow, it remains a vital part of the school’s curriculum, demonstrating the importance of hands-on learning and the myriad opportunities available in the trades. The teacher remains committed to its success, encouraging students to explore all the possibilities it offers.
