West Iron County Schools reveal student-built home

STAMBAUGH TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WLUC) - Family, friends and the new homeowner toured a new house on Friday that students built near Iron River.

The 2,200 square-foot house was almost entirely built by students in West Iron County Schools’ Building Trades Program.

West Iron County Schools Career and Technical Education Instructor Jeff Swenski says the program has helped many students find a career in the skilled trades.

“This program helps students realize their ability and possibly a passion,” Swenski said. “I have former students all over the country and all over the U.P. working in the trades.”

12 juniors and seniors spent two to three hours each day building the home from its foundation.

Swenski said he matches students with the skilled trade they show enthusiasm for.

“We don’t go as in-depth with the mechanical side of things,” Swenski said. “If a student shows interest in a mechanical trade, I will pair that student up with that trade as much as possible when those contractors are on site.”

One student, West Iron County Schools Senior Ethan Isaacson, spent much of his time with the electricians and said he plans to go into the trade after graduating.

As a second-year student of the program, Isaacson took a leadership role in the project.

He says it is something he can look back on with pride.

“It’s just not something a lot of people can say, ‘Hey I’ve built a house.’ Especially at the age I’m at right now, not a lot of people can say that they built a house or did that kind of stuff,” Isaacson said. “I take pride in that.”

Swenski says he already has 20 students signed up for next year’s project.