MCPS Students Begin Construction on 44th Annual Young American House

Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) students enrolled in Construction Technology Programs are making impressive strides on the early phases of the 44th annual Young American house, a collaboration with the Montgomery County Students Construction Trades Foundation, Inc. Since 1976, this project has served as a cornerstone of MCPS career education, offering students a unique opportunity to gain real-world experience in the construction industry.

In this year's project, students from various specialized career education programs are already hard at work, laying the foundation for what will eventually become a beautiful, student-built home in Silver Spring. This house will join the 43 homes previously constructed by MCPS students across Silver Spring, Rockville, and Bethesda.

“We are incredibly proud of our students,” said Instructional Specialist Hector Morales. “This unique opportunity allows them to apply their knowledge and skills to a real-world project, gaining invaluable experience and a sense of accomplishment. It’s a testament to the power of hands-on learning and the dedication of our educators.”

The Young American Student Design/Build House Project is a multi-faceted endeavor. It begins with an annual design competition where local architects, developers, and contractors review house design plans submitted by students from the Principles of Architecture and CAD Technology Program. The winning design is then brought to life by students in Construction Technology Programs, who handle the construction process from start to finish.

Once completed, the project is celebrated at a Cornerstone Ceremony, where a cornerstone is laid and the public is invited to tour the impressive structure. The house is then placed on the market for sale, with all proceeds benefiting the program to fund future projects, student scholarships and awards.

The Montgomery County Students Construction Trades Foundation, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and encouraging career education in the construction industry. By partnering with MCPS, the Foundation provides students with opportunities to develop essential skills and explore potential career paths in the construction field.

MCPS Construction Technology programs offer a diverse range of courses, including Carpentry, Electricity, HVAC, Masonry, Plumbing, Foundations of Building and Construction Technology, Construction Design and Management, and Principles of Architecture and CAD Technology. The programs equip students with the knowledge and practical experience needed to succeed in the construction industry.