About 100 high school students in London spent three days gaining hands-on construction experience while helping the city respond to homelessness. Working alongside Fanshawe College’s construction engineering technology program at the Level Up! Career Fair, students from three local school boards helped build three temporary shelters.

Guided by Fanshawe instructors and supported by the London and District Construction Association (LDCA), the students completed every stage of the eight by twelve foot structures, including framing, siding, electrical work and flooring. Mike Carter from the LDCA said the students were so engaged they stayed late on the first day and returned early the next morning to continue the work.

The shelters were assembled at the J AAR Expo Centre and are designed to offer simple, heated emergency accommodation through the winter. Each unit will include a heat pump, LED lighting and a murphy bed.

For many students already exploring construction courses, the project offered a first look at life on a job site. Grade 12 student Kayla Taff said the experience boosted her confidence, while fellow student Marcus Hayward said it felt meaningful to help someone in need.

It has not yet been decided which organization will receive the shelters, though last year’s builds were sent to Oneida Nation of The Thames.

Source: Andrew Lupton, CBC