News Summary
Students from Chico State’s construction management and engineering programs participated in a hands-on experience at the Inspire School of Arts construction site. This initiative, in collaboration with Chico Unified School District and local construction partners, allowed students to engage with industry professionals while discussing project planning and budgeting. The construction of the new campus, representing a significant investment in education, aims to bridge classroom theory with real-world application, preparing students for future careers in engineering and construction.
Chico, California – Students from Chico State’s construction management and engineering programs gained practical, hands-on experience at the construction site of the new Inspire School of Arts campus. This unique opportunity occurred on September 26, 2023, as part of a collaborative effort between the Chico Unified School District (CUSD) and construction partners Modern Building Company and McGuire and Hester.
The on-site experience allowed students to engage directly with industry professionals, facilitating discussions on key topics such as project planning, budgeting, and design. This interaction is designed to enhance students’ understanding of real-world construction processes and challenges.
Julie Kistle, the Director of Facilities and Construction for CUSD, highlighted the importance of such initiatives in preparing students for future careers in education and engineering. The construction site not only serves as a learning platform but also promotes the development of future leaders in these critical fields.
Construction manager Gareth Feldstein, a 2006 graduate of Chico State’s construction management program, emphasized the value of providing hands-on experiences for students. His commitment to this educational collaboration includes plans to introduce additional students to the construction site in the upcoming semester and beyond, further strengthening the partnerships between educational institutions and local construction initiatives.
The Inspire School of Arts campus has been in development for over a decade and represents a significant investment in the region, with funding totaling approximately $34 million sourced from both state and local programs, including Measures K and C. Located on a 7.5-acre site along Freemont Street, this project will serve as a modern educational facility focused on the arts.
The collaboration between CUSD and Chico State serves as a model for other educational institutions aiming to enhance hands-on learning practices. It illustrates a concerted effort to bridge the gap between classroom theory and practical application in fields such as construction and engineering. By engaging students in real-world scenarios, the program aims to ignite interest in various career paths while equipping them with the skills necessary to succeed in the industry.
As the Inspire School of Arts campus progresses, the educational advantages provided by such experiences are expected to play a vital role in preparing students not only for their future careers but also for the workforce demands of tomorrow.
This initiative reflects a growing trend among educational institutions to collaborate with local businesses and government agencies. Through these partnerships, students are afforded direct access to industry insights and mentorship opportunities that align with their academic pursuits.
Overall, the hands-on experiences gained at the Inspire School of Arts construction site will likely contribute to the professional development of Chico State students, fostering a more skilled and knowledgeable future workforce in the construction and engineering sectors.
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Additional Resources
- KRCR News
- Action News Now
- Turner Construction
- Wikipedia: Construction Management
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sustainable Architecture
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