Three local public schools received $2,500 each in classroom grants as part of a new initiative to support construction education and training, thanks to the newly established Foundation for Future Building Trades. In addition, six students were awarded scholarships totaling $6,000 to further their education or purchase tools and supplies for careers in the construction industry.

Classroom Grants Awarded:

  • Heritage High School – Instructor Jason Tipton will lead students in constructing a 10’ x 12’ storage shed, teaching framing techniques and foundational layout skills including flooring, walls, rafters, doors, and windows.
  • William Blount High School – Instructor Doug Blair will oversee two projects: flag-building in a fundamentals class and Adirondack chair construction for year one students. Both projects emphasize tool safety, measurement, and hands-on craftsmanship.
  • Maryville Junior High School – Instructor Jeremy Russell will utilize funding to enhance shop safety and efficiency by adding storage and dust collection systems, creating an environment conducive to learning and skill development.

Student Scholarships Awarded:

  • Colton Richardson, Heritage High School – $2,500
  • Christian Eggleton, William Blount High School – $1,500
  • Hunter Johnson, William Blount High School – $1,000
  • Brayden Sargent, William Blount High School – $500
  • Rafael Amos Sanchez, William Blount High School – $500

Students could apply for scholarships to support either continued education or the purchase of tools and equipment needed for employment in the construction field.

These awards were made possible through the consolidation of nearly $450,000 from the former Builders & Associates of Blount County chapter into the Foundation for Future Building Trades. The Foundation will fund classroom grants and scholarships with a focus on residential construction, aiming to grow the pipeline of skilled workers in the local construction industry.

The initiative is overseen by the Blount Partnership’s Construction Workforce Advisory Committee, which manages grant and scholarship disbursements.

“We are excited to provide these opportunities to local students and are committed to helping shape the future of the construction industry, particularly in residential building,” said Blount Partnership’s Director of Workforce Development Jessica Belitz. “These scholarships and grants will not only help students succeed but will also strengthen the local workforce, ensuring that our community has access to highly skilled professionals for years to come.”

The Foundation is actively seeking donations to sustain and grow this effort, which aligns with broader goals of workforce development and regional economic growth.

Photo 1 caption: Hunter Johnson, Braydon Sargent, Denver Hunt (Denver Hunt Construction), Rafael Sanchez, Christian Eggleton of William Blount High School each received a check.
Photo 2 caption: Greg Newman (Roger Newman Heating & Air) presents a check to Colton Richardson of Heritage High School.