Participants of the Junior Builder program engage in hands-on activities at a summer camp.
The Building Industry Association of Southern California hosted its seventh annual Junior Builder program, a two-day camp for ages 9 to 14. Participants learned about home building through hands-on activities, including virtual design labs and site visits. The program aimed to inspire interest in construction careers while addressing labor shortages in the industry. Students engaged in team challenges and showcased their designs in a competition judged by local officials. The initiative has become a vital platform for educating youth about potential careers in construction and design.
Aliso Viejo, California — The Building Industry Association of Southern California (BIASC) hosted its seventh annual Junior Builder program, a free two-day summer camp designed to introduce students to the home building industry. This year’s camp took place at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley and welcomed participants aged 9 to 14.
The program, co-sponsored by Rancho Mission Viejo and Shea Homes, aimed to provide hands-on experience with various aspects of home construction. Students engaged in activities such as virtual design labs, where they could explore architectural concepts and develop their design skills. In addition, they visited Shea Homes’ new community, Arrowleaf, located in Rancho Mission Viejo, which allowed them to see real-world applications of their learning.
Throughout the camp, participants took part in team-based challenges that fostered collaboration and problem-solving skills. A highlight of the program was the design competition, where students showcased their creativity by presenting their home designs to a panel. Orange County supervisor Katrina Foley and City of San Juan Capistrano councilmember John Taylor served as judges for the competition, assessing the students’ projects and awarding prizes to the top entries.
This initiative not only aims to inspire future builders but also seeks to contribute positively to the local community by educating young people about potential careers in construction and design. Nicole Murray, Division President of Shea Homes’ Southern California Division, underscored the significance of engaging the next generation in the industry. The camp serves as a bridge connecting youth with professional opportunities in home construction, a field that continually evolves with new technologies and techniques.
The Junior Builder program has gained momentum since its inception, emerging as a cornerstone event for BIASC in its mission to foster interest in the building trades among young individuals. Many previous participants have expressed how the experience ignited their passion for architecture and construction, leading to pursuits in related educational paths.
The camp aligns with wider efforts in Southern California to address labor shortages in the construction industry. As the demand for housing grows, organizations are looking to nurture a new generation of skilled workers. Educating students at a younger age can play a critical role in cultivating interest, ensuring a steady influx of talent into the workforce as they transition from education to careers.
This year’s camp attendees expressed enthusiasm for their experiences. Activities provided both educational value and hands-on learning, creating a unique opportunity for young minds to explore the world of building. By combining fun challenges with practical insights, the Junior Builder program aims to spark ongoing interest in professions related to construction and design.
The BIASC, alongside its partners, plans to continue the Junior Builder program annually, refining and enhancing the camp’s curriculum to adapt to the interests and needs of future generations. This ongoing commitment to engage youth will contribute to a thriving building industry that reflects the innovations and aspirations of its newest members.
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