Ryan Andersen, Southeast Polk High School Industrial Technology teacher, and Darell Butcher, SEP High School College and Career Coordinator, recently took several students to the Associated Builders and Contractors Competition & Career Fair Day on November 22, 2019 at the Iowa State Fair Varied Industries Building in Des Moines.
The ABC Craft Championship is a hallmark competition that promotes careers in construction management. The competition is designed to challenge construction knowledge, organization, time management, and presentation skills. This competition gives the construction management students a glimpse into the real world of construction, as well as an opportunity to showcase their talents. In addition to providing a significant learning opportunity, the competition fosters an environment that will bring out the best in each team; encourage dialogue among the students; and foster team spirit as students rise to meet this challenge.
The project this year was to build a dog house according to the blueprints provided. The students had just 5 minutes with their teacher then had to complete the project within the designated time frame.
Mr. Anderson shared, “This competition allows students to really show how much they have learned and how to put those skills into practice, including combining safety, blueprint reading, and communication skills in addition to carpentry skills. It’s a fantastic experience for the students to really grow their confidence in the trade!”
Our students shared about their experience:
“It shows you what it’s like to have to work with a team to make something under time constraints.” -Jack Wilty
“It was a good way to work with other people, it’s a way to see how other people work together and on a fast pace.” – James Bullington
“I feel that we did a very good job and it really challenged us. It was one of the most fun events I’ve been a part of.” – Mason Bean
“The greatest thing I’ve done, it was very beneficial and made me think more, I loved it!” – Jordan England
