The following article is gathered from interviews with Greg Semler, Marion Independent High School Principal (MHS), and Bruce Weisinger, the former Building Trades instructor. Along with Larry Twachtmann, former MHS principle, they have made this program as successful and influential as it is now. This exclusive article will be looking at the history of the Building Trades Program, how it started and how it has progressed since then. Also, scattered throughout this article are pictures of homes built by the students of the Building Trades Program; built 2017, 1992, and 1997, respectively.
Weisinger offered perspective on the origins of the program. With a housing recession in the 80’s, there were fewer construction companies. On top of that, schools began moving away from engineering, construction, and trades programs because of lack of encouragement and funding. So the Marion Independent School District along with Farmers State Bank began planning a program that would not only help students get hands-on experiences but also to support local businesses. They enlisted the help of local plumbers, electricians, and lumber suppliers. The Building Trades program was born, reviving efforts for interactive learning in the community. Weisinger’s vision, to buy land and construct a house with the leadership of the students became a reality. Every year for about 25 years, 15-20 Marion High School and Linn-Mar High School students joined together during the Building Trades class to build a house. The project was completely locally sourced, strengthening the community and encouraging the students to further their education locally.
The program was a success. As Weisinger retired, it halted the program until a new instructor was appointed. Hoping to resume the program, Semler involved Marion Economic Development Corporation (MEDCO) and the City of Marion to propose a new and equally ambitious project, buying older homes and renovating them. This year the class has been renovating a home, bought by MEDCO, with new siding, windows, and appliances. While it is an excellent experience and career preview for the students, it is equally as beneficial for the community as it supports local businesses and increases the value of the neighborhood. Since its founding, the Building Trades program has given students an opportunity to experience real world, hands-on construction.
Bruce believes, “With the increasing demand for skilled workers, this type of program is a vital part to meeting the needs of the construction workforce in the Marion community.” With his pioneering vision, the program continues to thrive and help students in the Marion community. Emily Russ, Workforce and Communication Specialist at MEDCO, states, “The program aligns with Community Promise to invest in deteriorating neighborhoods, equip students with hands-on experience in the trades, increase property values, and inspire neighborhoods to reach higher.”
That's all for this edition, to learn more about this program, check out, Marion Community Build. Stay tuned for more updates on the Community Build Program!