Habitat for Humanity and Western Colorado Community College teamed up to get students involved in designing homes for those in need
When 36-year-old Michael Ramsden went back to school to learn a new skill, he never imagined that before the semester-long course ended, one of his computer-aided designs (CAD) would be selected as one of the house plans for a local family in need.
During the Spring 2022 semester, Habitat for Humanity and Western Colorado Community College teamed up to get students involved in designing a unique floor plan that was affordable and functional.
Ramsden, who used to travel often for work, found his work/life balance could be better. So he enrolled in Western Colorado Community College to earn his Architectural Drafting technical certificate.
“It was exciting going back to school and learning new skills,” said Ramsden. “I’ve been around construction a lot but never had an opportunity to design a home for someone to live in.”
Prior to the students creating the designs, WCCC Technical Instructor of STEM Mike Mahoney took his architectural class to visit a habitat home which was under construction and met with the team to learn the requirements around building a home for the organization. Five students submitted plans and two were selected — Ramsden and his fellow classmate Chloe Miller. Habitat for Humanity awarded $500 dollars to Ramsden for his design, which he donated back to the family the house was being built for. Miller received a $500 scholarship to continue her studies.
“We are thrilled to be partnering with our local students to help increase awareness around the need for affordable homeownership opportunities in our community, while providing real life and hands-on experience for the students,” said Executive Director Habitat for Humanity of Mesa County Laurel Cole. “We hope this collaboration will continue to grow and look forward to involving a younger generation in getting one step closer to closing the affordable housing gap.”
The two homes designed by WCCC students are scheduled to be built this winter and spring.