Indian Springs Middle School students got a hands-on introduction to the skilled trades this summer during the first-ever Construction Camp, hosted by Columbia City High School Construction Trades Facilitator Dan Krill. The weeklong experience introduced students to construction fundamentals, tool safety, and real-world project building—culminating in the creation and donation of two custom-built picnic tables for Giving Gardens.
Construction Camp participants spent the week learning trade basics, practicing measurement and tool use, and working collaboratively on small builds. Students also had the unique opportunity to tour the new Whitley County Consolidated Schools Career and Technical Education (CTE) facility, scheduled to open in August 2026. Project managers led the tour following a safety briefing, giving students a behind-the-scenes look at the future home of advanced training in construction, welding, EMT, fire and rescue, and more.
The camp’s capstone project brought learning and community service together. Students constructed two full-size picnic tables, which were then donated to Giving Gardens, a local nonprofit that provides food access, education, and youth programming.
“A lot of what we do is about giving back to our community. When we had two picnic tables built during camp , we wanted to donate them to a local partner. Giving Gardens accepted the picnic tables and plans to use them during their after-school activities and summer programming," said Dan Krill, CCHS CTE instructor
The inaugural Construction Camp was made possible through the support of local industry partners. Morsches Builders Mart, Brooks Construction, and FCI generously provided materials, expertise, and encouragement to help introduce students to the world of skilled trades.
WCCS continues to expand opportunities for students to explore high-demand careers through hands-on learning, community partnerships, and the upcoming opening of the new CTE facility.