March 22, 2017

 Wine and Food Festival logo

 

The Construction and Carpentry program will host an open house at City College at the modular home built by students. Pictured here is Nic Reed as he puts away roofing tools.

Open House planned for Construction and Carpentry home at City College on March 31

Public welcome to event, taking place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., March 31 at City College

 

Contacts:

Business, Construction & Energy Technology Dept., City College, 247-3046

University Relations, 657-2266

 

MSU BILLINGS NEWS SERVICES — Every year, students of the Construction and Carpentry Program build a modular home.

 

From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., March 31, the program is hosting an open house to celebrate the home’s completion. Students and faculty will be providing tours at the City College location.

 

The public is welcome to attend the open house.

 

Currently, students are putting the final touches on the 1,400 square-foot, three bed, two bath home that boasts tile accents and rolling barn doors.

 

a City College student paints the baseboard in the new modular home
“This yearly project really gives students the hands-on experience they need so they are ready to enter the workforce and many go on to run their own contracting business,” said Instructor Terry Madtson. “This group of students has done a beautiful job and I’m really proud of them.”

 

As part of the curriculum, students learn about construction as well as skills to stoke entrepreneurial fires. Classes include project management and lessons in cost analyses, budgeting and return on investment principals.

 

Completion of the two-year program earn an associate of applied science degree.

 

Anthony Sperry, 33, is on the cusp of finishing his first year. After graduation, he plans to run his own contracting business.

 

“I entered the program because I missed out on a promotion at work,” said Sperry. “I want to be my own boss, so I thought I’d learn a new trade. I don’t want my options to be limited.”

 

While painting bathroom walls, Emmitt Reiland, 19, said he’s learned a lot during his first year. He’s looking forward to next year and building another home.

 

“I hope we put a fireplace in it,” Reiland said.

 

In April, the modular home will be sold, Madtson said.

 

“The proceeds from selling these homes help cover the costs of construction and helps keep the program going,” Madtson said.