Two of the standard 10’x12′ sheds for sale from the Construction Technologies program
It’s no secret that our Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs feature hands-on, project-based learning. What you may not know is that in the Construction Technologies program at Rensselaer Educational Center, the final product of that hands-on, project-based learning is often for sale.
The first major project juniors take on is the building of a 10’x12’ shed. Work begins toward the end of September and usually concludes by early December. Students build the entire project from scratch – framing, roofing, and siding. Once the sheds are complete, they are put up for sale.
Students can also take custom orders should an individual want something other than the standard 10’x12’ model. Teacher Joe Mix says as long it’s legal to be hauled down the road, they can build it.
Teacher Joe Mix works with a student at REC
The class has received a number of customized requests – different sizes, a larger door, windows or different styles of siding. The class is even working to take on a project in which they are given a budget from a client and must work to create a product that fits within that budget. This can mean choosing different materials, adjusting the size of the shed or the method in which it is built. Mix says this gives the students a feel for what it’s like to be a contractor working with the public.
“If a client says this is the budget, what can you do with ‘x’ amount of money, what can I get, they need to be able to figure it out,” said Mix.
Two students clamp a piece of lumber before cutting it
Aside from building the sheds, students also construct Adirondack chairs (which are also put up for sale), items requested for other classes or programs within the school or the BOCES, as well as small personal projects.
There are currently three sheds from last year’s class still up for sale. Each shed is 10’x12’ with white vinyl siding, and is pressure-treated from the floor down. They are listed for $1,800 each and buyers are responsible for providing transportation from REC (35 Colleen Road, Troy). For more information, or to request a custom model, contact Joe Mix at jmix@questar.org or (518) 273-2264.
