Construction Technology students at Haywood Community College recently assisted the Waynesville Housing Authority in adding much-needed storage behind homes in the Ninevah housing community. This collaborative project is part of an effort to address housing needs in the community, with the Waynesville Housing Authority managing five areas in town with a total of 100 residential units.
The students were responsible for preparing the foundation for each storage unit, which involved tasks such as laying out and leveling blocks, as well as framing floor systems decked in plywood. This hands-on experience was a perfect fit for the Construction Technology course curriculum, which focuses on residential framing. The pre-manufactured sheds will be installed later by the Waynesville Housing Authority.
John Bryson, Director of the Waynesville Housing Authority and a member of HCC’s Construction Skills & Technology Advisory Board, has been working closely with the college’s construction program to identify potential projects for students to apply their skills in real-world settings. Bryson emphasized the importance of community partnerships in projects like this one.
The Waynesville Housing Authority is committed to providing quality and affordable housing to individuals in Haywood County and surrounding areas, and the addition of affordable storage units on the property will make the transition to subsidized housing easier for residents. By collaborating with HCC’s construction class, the Housing Authority is able to expedite the completion of this project while giving students valuable hands-on experience.
HCC’s Construction Skills & Technology program offers classes throughout the year, covering topics such as basic construction skills, HVACR, construction technology, and plumbing. Those interested in learning more about the Waynesville Housing Authority can visit their website at waynesvillehousing.org, while information on HCC’s Construction classes can be found at haywood.edu/continuing-education/construction.