Building Design Program History

In fall 1997, the NAWIC Education Foundation launched its third k-12 program.  NAWIC member, Kimberly A. Cameron, CIT along with three educators created the Building Design Program for middle level students in grades six – nine.  The Building Design Program (BDP) is structured to introduce construction in a positive and fun manner, while presenting challenges in math, communication and design.  Most uniquely, through an estimating exercise, the students use applied math skills.  (Applied math skills are a major obstacle in passing apprenticeship exams.  

The BDP is a team-based programs introduces the students to the imaginative world of construction through these objectives:

Ø      Enhance awareness of construction industry careers and professions;

Ø      Enhance relationships between math, science, technology and communication as they relate to the construction industry;

Ø      Foster critical thinking, problem solving and creativity.

Under the guidance of an instructor the teams of students will complete the design of a 1,000 square foot house for a family of four keeping the cost under $50,000.  The program follows a ten-lesson plan layout including keeping a journal (job log), floor plan sketches, site plan layout, job costs worksheets, a report on five construction industry careers, a scaled model and a final report.

Go to the Forms page and download the new K-12 Brochure!