Construction Trades students at Gallatin and Bozeman High Schools have officially begun work on their first annual shed-building projects, bringing classroom learning to life through real-world construction experiences. After many weeks of developing skills in safety, measurement, layout, and tool use, students are now applying their knowledge on the job site with purpose and enthusiasm. This week marks an exciting milestone as students begin constructing the flooring systems for their sheds.

Working in teams, students are laying out and assembling the floor platforms that will serve as the foundation for each structure. They’re putting their technical training into action—reading plans, making accurate cuts, fastening components correctly, and ensuring everything is square, level, and structurally sound. The job site feels like a true construction environment, and students are gaining valuable hands-on insight into the workflow and expectations of the trades.
​
These shed builds not only strengthen technical ability but also build teamwork, problem-solving, and confidence. As walls, roofs, and finishing details take shape in the weeks and months ahead, students will continue to deepen their understanding of the construction industry and the career pathways it offers. This year’s projects are off to a strong and inspiring start!

This last few weeks in the Construction Academy, students took an exciting step forward as they began learning the essentials of floor and wall framing. Using their newly built “practice walls,” students are getting hands-on experience with construction fundamentals that will serve as the backbone of every structure they build in the future.
As part of the process, students are developing key skills such as accurate measurement, layout techniques, and proper tool usage. They are also learning how to ensure that every component is square, level, and plumb—critical concepts that determine the overall stability and quality of any building project.
What makes this experience especially valuable is the real-world application. Students aren’t just hearing about these concepts—they’re using tape measures, levels, framing squares, and saws to apply them. By practicing on their sample walls, they gain the confidence and competence needed to tackle full-scale projects later in the year.
The Construction Academy continues to provide powerful opportunities for students to build practical skills, explore career pathways, and experience the satisfaction of creating something with their own hands. Watching these students take ownership of their learning—and their craftsmanship—has been inspiring, and we can’t wait to see what they build next.

Students in the Construction Academy program at both Bozeman High School and Gallatin High School had the unique opportunity this week to step into the operator’s seat—virtually! Williams Academy visited both campuses with their state-of-the-art heavy equipment simulators, giving students a hands-on look at what it’s like to operate excavators, dozers, and other machinery used daily on construction sites.

The simulators provided a realistic and engaging learning experience, allowing students to safely explore what it takes to manage large-scale construction equipment. Many students commented on how eye-opening it was to see the precision and skill required to operate these machines effectively.

In addition to the simulator experience, representatives from Williams Civil Construction spoke with students about the wide range of apprenticeship opportunities available through their company. These include pathways in Plumbing, HVAC, and Heavy Equipment Operation, providing real-world, paid training opportunities for students interested in pursuing careers in the trades.
​
The visit from Williams Academy was an exciting and valuable addition to the Construction Academy curriculum, connecting classroom learning to real industry experiences. Opportunities like these continue to help students explore potential career paths, develop practical skills, and better understand the rewarding work that drives Montana’s construction industry forward.

Our Construction Academy students at Bozeman High School and Gallatin High School are experiencing the power of industry support firsthand, thanks to generous tool donations from Milwaukee Tool and Kenyon Noble here in Bozeman. These contributions are already making a tremendous difference in the classroom, the shop, and on the job site.

A Legacy of Quality: Milwaukee Tool
Founded in 1924, Milwaukee Tool has built a reputation as a leader in the design and manufacture of heavy-duty power tools, hand tools, and accessories. Known for their innovation and durability, Milwaukee tools are trusted by professionals across the world to handle the toughest jobs. For our students, having access to this industry-standard equipment means they’re learning with the very same tools they’ll use in their future careers. It’s more than just convenience—it’s preparation for real-world success.

A Local Partner: Kenyon Noble
Closer to home, Kenyon Noble has been a cornerstone of the Gallatin Valley since 1889. With deep roots in Montana, this family-owned business has supported generations of builders, contractors, and do-it-yourselfers with quality materials and supplies. Their commitment to strengthening our community extends beyond construction materials—they are also deeply invested in supporting education and workforce development. By providing tools to our program, Kenyon Noble is helping ensure that today’s students can become tomorrow’s skilled tradespeople.

Tools That Build Futures
The donations from Milwaukee Tool and Kenyon Noble go far beyond hardware. These tools are the foundation of hands-on learning, allowing our students to practice safe, efficient, and professional building techniques. From cutting lumber with precision to fastening materials securely, the right tools empower our students to do their best work. Just as importantly, they help instill pride, responsibility, and confidence as students master each new skill.

We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of Milwaukee Tool and Kenyon Noble. Their partnership strengthens our Construction Academy and ensures our students have the resources they need to succeed—not just in class, but in their future careers. With support like this, we are building more than projects. We are building futures.​

Our high school construction students are starting the year on the right foot—literally! Thanks to a generous donation from Red Wing Shoes, every student in our program received a donated pair of high-quality work boots.

For anyone who has spent time on a construction site, you know that reliable footwear isn’t just about comfort—it’s about safety, durability, and protection. From preventing slips and falls to guarding against dropped tools or heavy materials, a sturdy pair of boots is one of the most important pieces of personal protective equipment a builder can own.

Red Wing has been a trusted name in workwear for more than a century, known for producing boots that stand up to tough conditions while keeping workers safe. Their support ensures our students are equipped like true professionals as they begin learning and practicing in the shop and on job sites.

We are incredibly grateful to Red Wing for investing in the future of our students and supporting the next generation of builders. Their generosity not only keeps our students safe but also shows them the importance of community and industry partnerships.
​
Thanks to Red Wing, our students are walking tall into a future of opportunities—one safe step at a time.

We’re excited to share that our brand-new construction classes at Bozeman High School and Gallatin High School are off to a fantastic start! Both programs are full, and our students have jumped right in, showing enthusiasm and dedication as they begin their hands-on learning journey.

Over the past few weeks, students have been building a strong foundation in essential construction skills. They’ve been:

• Learning and practicing safety procedures in the shop and with individual tools
• Reviewing and applying measurement and layout techniques
• Studying materials, fasteners, and tool organization
• Building their very first project--sawhorses for the job site

These early lessons are setting the stage for more advanced skills and real-world applications as the year continues.

It’s important to emphasize that this opportunity wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of our local industry partners. Their sponsorship, resources, and belief in our students have made it possible to launch this program and give high schoolers the chance to explore a career path that is hands-on, practical, and in high demand.

With full classrooms, eager learners, and strong community support, things could not be off to a better start. We’re thrilled to see the excitement around this program and look forward to watching our students grow their skills and confidence throughout the year.