Students in our Foundations of CTE 10 class gained some valuable hands-on learning experiences during an initiative this fall to help restore the log cabin building near Tilden Hill Road, one of the most recognizable structures on our campus. 

The project was a collaboration between Foundations 10, Building Services and the Conservation program, aimed at beautifying and extending the life of the building.

“This project was brought to us by Building Services, and it’s a perfect fit for a building trades class,” said Harris. “Conservation, Carpentry, and Foundations 10 all make use of the cabin, the sugar shack and the sawmill, so this work connects directly to student learning.”

As part of the rehabilitation, Harris sprayed a protective coat of paint onto the cabin while students followed behind with brushes, working the paint into the wood to ensure it was sealed and preserved. Students also learned important carpentry skills as they help replace pieces of the roofing. By blending classroom instruction with practical application, this project shows the value of cross-department collaboration while giving students meaningful experience in maintaining and caring for campus facilities.