Mercer County Tech Students Launch Unique Playhouse Sale Today

UPDATE: Students from Mercer County Technical Schools are launching a special sale of custom-built playhouses, showcasing their carpentry skills and creativity. Each playhouse, measuring 64 square feet at 8 feet wide and 7 feet tall, will be available for purchase for approximately $5,000.

The initiative, led by senior student Solomon Hussein, aims to provide hands-on experience while delivering unique products to the community. “For me, I can’t really sit down and get work done at a desk or a computer,” said Hussein, emphasizing his passion for working with his hands.

The project originated about seven months ago under the guidance of carpentry instructor Denver Bird, who has over 20 years of experience in the private sector. Bird’s mission is to inspire students and dispel the myth that young individuals are uninterested in trades. “I found a lot of young individuals that actually do want to work and are interested in pursuing a career in the trades,” he stated.

Each playhouse was constructed by groups of four to five students, with an emphasis on teamwork and skill development. “When you’re building something you can walk into, that feels more rewarding,” said senior Emil Backes, who is applying to colleges for architecture.

Students allocate about 25 hours a week to carpentry, learning essential skills like reading a tape measure to the 32nd of an inch. The playhouses, built with quality materials, reflect their dedication and hard work. Bird noted that the total investment for each playhouse is around $4,000, and ideally, they hope to recoup $1,000 to reinvest in the program.

Another senior, Matthew Cranston, expressed his enthusiasm: “I’ll be using these skills probably for the rest of my life.” His sentiment resonates with many students, as they realize the importance of practical skills in their future careers.

Bird, who teaches 40 junior and senior students, highlighted the transformation he witnesses in his class. “You see these young people come in and some don’t know which end of a screwdriver to use, and then in just a few months, they’re building a playhouse,” he remarked.

To purchase a playhouse, interested buyers can call 609-586-5144 or visit the schools’ contact page. This unique opportunity not only supports local students but also provides families with a custom-built playhouse that represents hard work and dedication.

This project is a testament to the talent and enthusiasm of Mercer County Technical Schools’ students, making it a must-share story for anyone interested in supporting local education and craftsmanship.