The construction industry is evolving, and so are the opportunities available for young learners. In Airdrie, one of the most impactful educational partnerships is the Building Futures program — a hands-on Grade 10 learning experience created through a long-standing collaboration between McKee Homes and Rocky View Schools. Recently featured in Airdrie Life’s Winter 2025/26 issue, the program continues to gain local and online attention for its innovative approach to trades education.

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What Is the Building Futures Program?

Building Futures is a year-long educational program that allows students to complete their Grade 10 curriculum while working directly on active residential construction sites in Airdrie. Instead of a traditional classroom, students learn inside two garages transformed into a dedicated learning space — positioned right beside the homes they help build.

Key Program Highlights

• Students help build two full homes from foundation to finishing.

• They participate in framing, mechanical systems, design, project management, and more.

• Trade Professionals mentor students daily.

• Safety training is continuous and hands-on.

• The experience blends academic requirements with real-world career exploration.

This highly practical environment gives students a unique head start on understanding the residential construction industry.

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Why Programs Like Building Futures Matter for Airdrie’s Growth?

As demand for skilled trades continues to rise across Alberta, programs like Building Futures help strengthen the local workforce pipeline. Students gain early exposure to:

• Construction and carpentry

• Drafting and design

• Mechanical systems

• Team leadership

• Professional communication

Program manager Sheri McAllister notes that students experience significant personal growth — from developing confidence and communication skills to understanding the expectations of a real jobsite. These outcomes position them well for trades careers or related post-secondary paths (Airdielife, 2025).

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Student Perspectives: How Hands-On Learning Creates Opportunities

The Airdrie Life feature shares insights from current students who are discovering new career interests through the program:

• Liam Weeks, originally interested in becoming a pilot, discovered a passion for carpentry and framing after working directly on the builds (Airdrielife, 2025).

• Lena Chevais was inspired by a previous welding camp and applied to Building Futures to continue exploring the trades. She highlights the value of outdoor, active learning and the support of dedicated teachers (Airdrielife, 2025).

Their experiences reflect the program’s impact — opening doors to potential careers while helping students learn in ways that align with their strengths.

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Where the 2025 Builds Are Located?

This year, the Building Futures homes are being constructed in Chinook Winds, a growing southwest Airdrie community. At the end of the school year, students will proudly showcase their work as the homes are opened for public viewing before being prepared for sale.

This hands-on achievement helps students connect their daily efforts to a tangible finished product — something they can point to with pride for years to come.

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McKee Homes’ Commitment to Community Learning

As a trusted homebuilder in Airdrie, McKee Homes is committed to supporting meaningful educational experiences that prepare students for future career paths. Building Futures represents an investment in:

• Community development

• Youth empowerment

• Skilled trades awareness

• Local workforce growth

By blending curriculum with real construction experience, the program demonstrates what’s possible when industry and education collaborate.

Learn more about McKee Homes and the Building Futures partnership at mckeehomes.com

Thanks Airdrielife for another amazing article highlighting the Fantastic program, to view the whole article please read page 60 & 61.