RCTC Carpentry Program Constructs Hope and Homes with Two Rivers Habitat for Humanity and First Homes

2023 RCTC Carpentry Houses

Rochester Community and Technical College’s (RCTC) Carpentry Program is excited to collaborate with Two Rivers Habitat for Humanity and First Homes in the construction of single-family homes for deserving families in the Rochester community. RCTC students are lending their carpentry skills to make a positive impact on the lives of local families.

Under the guidance of Aaron Davis, RCTC Carpentry Instructor, and with the support from project partners, the RCTC Carpentry Program students are currently involved in two significant projects:2023 RCTC Carpentry Houses

  1. Habitat for Humanity Collaboration: RCTC Carpentry Program students have joined forces with Habitat for Humanity, a renowned nonprofit organization dedicated to building affordable housing for those in need. Together they are working diligently to construct a beautiful and comfortable home for a local family that will provide them with a safe and stable living environment. RCTC students assisted with installing roof trusses, sheeting, and interior wall framing this fall.
  2. First Homes Initiative: In addition to their collaboration with Habitat for Humanity, RCTC Carpentry Program students are also participating in the construction of a new slab-on-grade home for First Homes, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to creating affordable housing solutions. This project reflects RCTC’s dedication to addressing housing challenges in the community while providing students with hands-on experience in modern construction techniques.

2023 RCTC Carpentry HouseThe collaborative effort allows RCTC Carpentry program students to apply their classroom knowledge in a meaningful way and gain invaluable real-world experience while working alongside seasoned professionals. The hands-on nature of the project further enhances the students’ skills and reinforces the program’s mission to produce skilled craftsmen who are not only proficient in their trade but are also actively involved in giving back to the community.

Aaron Davis, Carpentry Instructor, expressed enthusiasm for the students’ involvement in the project. “Our Carpentry Program is excited to go beyond teaching technical skills and help make a difference where we can. Working with community partners like Habitat for Humanity and First Homes is an added bonus because we are showing our students to invest in their community and learn a skill at the same time. “

The initiative benefits the local community by providing much-needed housing and serves as a testament to the Carpentry Program’s dedication to producing well-rounded individuals who are not only skilled professionals but also compassionate contributors to our community.

Eric Hoyer, Construction Manager at Two Rivers Habitat for Humanity adds, “Without community involvement and support, we would not be able to impact affordable homeownership within the communities we support as much as we do. We are truly grateful for the opportunity to work with the next generation of trades men and women and provide support in their efforts of building their individual knowledge and skills, all while furthering the mission of Two Rivers Habitat for Humanity. We look forward to a continued partnership in which we all benefit greatly from one another’s participation.”