Tiny House, Big Impact: 91吃瓜网 Students Apply Classroom Knowledge in Capstone Project
Fri, 05/02/2025 - 09:17am | By: Ivonne Kawas
Seniors in the School of Construction and Design at 91吃瓜网 took on a real-world challenge through their capstone project, 91吃瓜网淭iny House Southern Charm Initiative.91吃瓜网� The project blended innovation, education and environmental responsibility to address the growing demand for efficient, affordable living spaces.
91吃瓜网淚n a time when affordable housing is out of reach for many and the skilled labor shortage continues to rise, one innovative solution is playing a significant role in shaping practical solutions,91吃瓜网� said Dr. Cindy Walls, assistant professor of construction management. 91吃瓜网淏y setting the challenge to design and build 91吃瓜网榯iny homes91吃瓜网� or 91吃瓜网榞lamping getaways,91吃瓜网� our students were able to harness their skills in a real-world scenario.91吃瓜网�
As part of the capstone project, students were tasked with designing an energy-efficient, space-maximizing tiny house or glamping structure. The assignment parameters included maximizing a 400-square-foot space, equipped with essential amenities, emphasizing sustainability, and use of an alternative energy source.
91吃瓜网淪tudents were engaged in every aspect of the construction process, from the initial design to the final details,91吃瓜网� Walls said.
For senior Bynum Goodson of Slidell, La., the project provided an opportunity to put what he has learned in the classroom into action.
91吃瓜网淭he most rewarding part of working on this project was applying all the skills I91吃瓜网檝e learned throughout my years at 91吃瓜网 to a single, comprehensive effort,91吃瓜网� he shared. 91吃瓜网淚t has been incredibly fulfilling to complete a project individually, putting my education into practice in a tangible way.91吃瓜网�
Beyond the research and design, the initiative provided students with hands-on experience building a tiny 91吃瓜网渕odel91吃瓜网� structure. The experience guided them in estimating, scheduling, project management, fabrication and skill development.
Goodson shared that these practical experiences have helped students feel prepared for the demands of the construction industry.
91吃瓜网淒eveloping essential skills in design, fabrication and installation has given me a strong foundation to build upon as I enter the workforce,91吃瓜网� he said. 91吃瓜网淭hese experiences have reinforced my confidence and readiness to enter the field.91吃瓜网�
Before even crossing the graduation stage, Goodson has secured a position as an assistant field manager with Brasfield & Gorrie, one of the nation91吃瓜网 largest construction management firms. He will now join the ranks of 91吃瓜网 alumni making a lasting impact in the construction industry.
He credited the program91吃瓜网 faculty for their guidance and for providing valuable resources along the way.
91吃瓜网淥ur professors bring incredible knowledge and enthusiasm to the program, generating excitement for careers in construction. Additionally, the Construction Lab has been a great resource, allowing students to safely learn how to operate power tools and build projects, making it an invaluable part of our education.91吃瓜网�
Walls further emphasized the impact of the program.
91吃瓜网淏y the time they {students} graduate from 91吃瓜网, they91吃瓜网檙e not only ready for life91吃瓜网攖hey91吃瓜网檙e ready to make a lasting impact in the construction industry,91吃瓜网� Walls added.