Gadsden State Construction Technology Students Gain Real-World Experience Through Community Partnerships

Gadsden, Ala. — Students in Gadsden State Community College’s Construction Technology program, based on the Valley Street Campus, are building more than just skills—they’re building their communities. Under the leadership of instructor Heath McDaniel, the program partners with several local nonprofit organizations to give students valuable, hands-on experience while giving back to others.

McDaniel said approximately 80 percent of the program’s training takes place in the field. Students spend Mondays in the classroom learning core concepts, then apply those lessons Tuesday through Thursday on real job sites throughout the area.
“Our students get to work with their hands, make a difference in the community, and build something they’re proud of,” McDaniel said. “There are tons of opportunities in construction right now, and we want our students to be prepared to step right into those jobs.”

The Construction Technology program regularly collaborates with organizations including Habitat for Humanity, Eagle Rock Boys Ranch, Windy Van Hooten Teaching Garden, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, and The Dream Center. The class contributes to specific phases of nonprofit building projects such as framing, finishing, and other areas aligned with their current training modules.

Support from the Greater Gadsden Home Builders Association has also been instrumental, providing materials, scholarships, and mentorship opportunities for students.

The class recently applied those skills on a two-home build project in West Gadsden with Habitat for Humanity, providing students with valuable real-world construction experience while supporting local families.

In addition to community service work, students complete college-based projects and other practical assignments that strengthen their technical and teamwork skills. Their work spans much of Northeast Alabama, from Anniston to Boaz, reflecting Gadsden State’s commitment to serving its entire service area.

McDaniel said the experience not only equips students with the technical skills needed to succeed but also helps them develop a strong sense of purpose.

“It’s rewarding to see students realize they can build a career and make a difference at the same time,” he said.

To learn more about Gadsden State’s Construction Technology program, visit gadsdenstate.edu/programs-of-study/construction.