Submitted photo Students in the skilled trades program at Austintown Fitch High School are constructing custom sheds like this one that will be near the playground at Walnut Grove.

AUSTINTOWN — Students in the skilled trades program at Austintown Fitch High School are putting their classroom skills to work in a meaningful way by constructing custom sheds that will be near the playground area at Walnut Grove.

The project provided students with valuable hands-on experience in construction while also giving back to the community. Throughout the process, students applied and strengthened skills in framing, roofing, door construction, teamwork and project planning.

Senior Emily Barninger said the project challenged students to continue building on the techniques they learn every day in the skilled trades program.

“We are always learning new skills in any of Mr. (Jim) Fisher’s classes,” Barninger said. “While working on our shed unit, we learned and revisited skills, including door making, roofing, framing. This shed gave me opportunities to improve my skills. I had fun while working and found pride in my work.”

For student Cal Bourneuf, knowing the sheds would directly benefit the community added even more meaning to the project.

“I am so glad to have had the opportunity to work on the sheds,” Bourneuf said. “It was a very educational and fun experience. From the beginning, I knew they were going to be a part of the community and going to people in need of one. I knew that I had to put my best work into it, making it look nice and putting a lot of effort into this project. I really hope Canfield enjoys their brand new sheds, and all the kids enjoy their new sheds. I really enjoyed working with my team; they all worked very hard and with the same pride I had.”

Student JJ Joki said the teamwork involved made the experience especially memorable.

“Building this shed with my friends meant a lot because it showed what teamwork and hard work can create,” Joki said. “Knowing it will be part of a playground for kids to enjoy makes it something I’ll always be proud of.”

Projects like these continue to showcase how students in Fitch’s skilled trades program are gaining real-world experience while making a positive impact beyond the classroom.