Building Skills, Building Futures: Juarez-Lincoln High School Construction Technology Students Gain Real-World Experience

Posted Date: 10/30/26 (03:00 PM)

A group of students gather outdoors near a brick building, working together on a metalworking project.

Students in the Construction Technology program at Juarez-Lincoln High School are taking their classroom knowledge to the next level through an exciting hands-on learning opportunity made possible through a partnership between La Joya ISD's Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department and South Texas College's Center for Advanced Training and Apprenticeships (CATA).

As part of this initiative, students have begun constructing a 10-by-12-foot storage shed, applying fundamental carpentry skills and knowledge. The project provides students with an authentic learning experience that mirrors the planning, precision, teamwork, and problem-solving required in the construction industry.

Students have received hands-on support from Samuel Garza, La Joya ISD CTE Instructional Specialist who is a La Joya ISD alumni and two-time State Carpentry Champion. Mr. Garza has been working directly with students to strengthen their understanding of construction fundamentals, proper framing techniques, construction terminology, and the safe and effective use of building materials.

A group of students work together on a large wooden platform outdoors under a partly cloudy sky.

Throughout the project, students will gain practical experience in essential areas of residential construction, including:

Blueprint Reading and Elevations: Understanding construction drawings, dimensions, and structural layouts.
Floor Framing: Learning proper measurements, layout, and assembly of structural floor systems.
Wall Framing: Applying framing techniques to construct walls, including proper spacing, alignment, and structural support.
Roof Framing: Exploring roof design, structural components, and assembly techniques.
Sheathing: Learning how to properly install sheathing materials to complete the building's structural framework.

Beyond technical skills, the project emphasizes the importance of teamwork, communication, accuracy, safety, and craftsmanship qualities that are essential for success in the construction industry.

A group of people work together to build a wooden structure outside a building.

The partnership with South Texas College's CATA reinforces La Joya ISD's commitment to expanding career pathways, strengthening workforce readiness, and providing students with valuable opportunities to explore careers in the skilled trades.

Through initiatives like this, La Joya ISD continues to build a stronger connection between education and industry, ensuring students graduate with practical experience, technical knowledge, and a foundation for future success in construction-related careers.