High school students earn credit building tiny homes
Students earn credit building tiny homes at Habitat-run modular factory
Overview
In Boulder, Colorado, the city, the school district, and Habitat for Humanity Flatirons opened a new, solar‑powered factory where high school students help build modular homes. Students spend part of their school day at the factory, earn class credit, and learn real‑world skills alongside Habitat professionals. The first homes are all‑electric and designed to be energy‑efficient. This effort supports local families who need affordable places to live and gives young people a pathway into skilled careers.
Key points
- Partnership: City of Boulder + Boulder Valley School District + Habitat for Humanity Flatirons.
- Factory: 31,375‑square‑foot, solar‑powered space producing all‑electric, modular townhomes (two families per unit).
- Student learning: Teens earn credit and build job skills with guidance from Habitat staff and volunteers.
- Throughput goal: Ramp up to produce a home about every two weeks.
- Recognition: The program received the Eagle Award from Housing Colorado.
Why this matters for The Change Lab
This is a practical mix of learning and service. Students help meet a basic need—stable, affordable homes—while building useful skills. It aligns with our Pathways for Basic Needs and Economic Security and our focus on Volunteerism and Mutual Aid. A simple local model: Build → Learn → Serve.
