Students from Mt. Pleasant Public Schools (MPPS) joined their peers from nine other Mid-Michigan schools to build and finish a brand-new house in Mt. Pleasant this summer, which sold after just a few weeks on the market.
Students in the Gratiot-Isabella Technical Education Center (GI-TEC) – Mt. Pleasant Campus completed the program’s 46th student-built house over the course of two school years.
“Our students did a remarkably impressive job on this house, which showcases exceptional craftsmanship and creativity,” said Pat Onstott, GI-TEC Director – Mt. Pleasant Campus. “I want to thank our dedicated instructors and support staff who provided an awesome hands-on lab experience that empowered students every step of the way. All their hard work created this extraordinary house that highlights the very best of Career and Technical Education.”
Michigan’s skilled trades workforce totals nearly 255,000, the eighth largest in the nation, according to a recent Detroit News article. Ongoing worker shortages are expected to continue through 2030, as professional trades are projected to account for more than 520,000 jobs in Michigan, leaving the state facing a potential gap of 265,000 workers. The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity estimates about 70,000 skilled trades job openings every year.
“Our local skilled trades students are getting an excellent education in the classroom and real-world, hands-on experience on job sites that prepare them for in-demand careers,” said MPPS Superintendent Jennifer Verleger.
“Skilled trades are a big priority for Mt. Pleasant Public Schools because we want to help students get ready for good-paying jobs in everything from construction trades and welding to automotive technology, agri-science and the culinary arts. The student-built house on Batson is a beautiful home that reflects their amazing skills, hard work and world-class education.”
The home was listed for $369,900, was listed by Weichert Realtors, and was on the market for just a few weeks before catching the eye of a family – MPPS graduates who participated in the program themselves – who closed on the house in August.
GI-TEC offers 20 career and technical programs to MPPS students and others throughout Isabella and Gratiot counties. For more information, visit www.mtpleasantschools.net.
By: Maxine McCullough | Morning Sun