At Greeley West High School, the construction program is helping seniors get ready for life after graduation. Construction teacher Mr. Matthew Weber says many students join the program as freshmen but only some stay until senior year. “I hope about 20 percent stay in the program,” Weber said.

Right now, about 26 upperclassmen are in the advanced construction class. These students help build real houses, which gives them hands-on experience.

Many seniors plan to go straight into construction jobs after they graduate. Weber said construction gives students a strong advantage. “You can start working at 18 and have a full-time job,” Weber explained.

Weber said some former students are already earning good money. One student, who graduated three years ago, now makes more money than he does as an electrician. Construction careers include electricians, plumbers,  HVAC workers, framers, and roofers. Many of these jobs pay well and do not always require college.

Another benefit for students looking for construction experience is that some companies pay for trade school. This helps students avoid student loans. Weber also helps juniors and seniors find summer jobs by working with local contractors.

One current senior Weber shouted out was Miguel Hernandez. Hernandez said he became interested in construction during his freshman year, but joined the class during his sophomore year. “I wanted to learn construction because I like working with my hands and building things,” Hernandez said.

Hernandez also worked with his uncle, who is a painter, during the summer. He said seeing houses being built made him enjoy construction even more. Hernandez said the program helps students learn important skills before they graduate. Students in the class also work with Habitat for Humanity where they help build homes and learn from professional workers. “That hands-on experience is probably the best way to learn,” Hernandez said. 

Hernandez is still deciding what he wants to do after high school, but he knows construction will part of his future. “There are many opportunities in construction,” Hernandez explained. “If you like it, you should stay with it.”