Construction Technology

Poway High School

Course Overview

Since the summer of 2021, high school students from around Poway Unified School District have been building a mobile tiny house.  This ambitious project has been led by veteran CTE teacher, Joe Ismay, who has directed nearly 75 energetic students (with little to no building experience). The tiny house, along with CTE's Building and Construction Pathway, is located at Poway High School and open to all high school students across the district. Check out some highlights here.  

Construction Technology is designed to provide introductory skills and opportunities for students with varying levels of building experience. Every student will earn OSHA-10 certification prior to entering the "job site." Course outcomes will focus on completing the interior of the tiny house (specifically plumbing, electrical, and finish carpentry).  

Students completed the rough plumbing, electrical and began the interior finishes (insulation, kitchen, bathroom and living space) of tiny house #1. Once completed, the tiny house will be placed up for auction with the proceeds to be re-invested in the program.  

Students during summer 2022 began building the second tiny house and will be completed by students during the 2022-23 school year.  

Summer 2021 

Students were involved in all aspects of the build.  

Mt. Carmel High School Summer 2021

Construction of the exterior took 19 days (4 hours daily).  

Poway Unified District Office 

 Winter 2022

Summer 2022

Construction began on a 2nd tiny home.

Student work is constantly reviewed by industry professionals.

Thanks to the Associate General Contractors for hosting!

Heavy machinery simulator at the AGC.  So cool!  

Spring 2023

Our tiny house is complete!

The journey that started nearly two years ago is coming to an end.  Our 160 square foot, movable tiny house with RV hookups, is ready for a buyer.  

Kitchenette

Custom counter top, two-burner electric range, microwave, small frig and garbage disposal. 

Living and bedroom

Area for bed or couch with mini-split heating and cooling system.  Small closet and ceiling fan too!

Storage

Area to hang a TV and more storage. Creates division between kitchen and living space

Custom vanity

Full shower (toilet not pictured)

Summer 2023

A new group registered for the Builders Bootcamp Camp '23!

Rough electrical and plumbing began on the second tiny house.

Measure twice; cut once.

Mr. Ismay inspecting the plumbing system.  

PUSD Career Technical Education Department...

provides K-12 Poway Unified students an opportunity to explore their interests and skills through a comprehensive offering of courses and opportunities.  Middle and high school students should see their school counselor to learn more about our pathways at their school.  There is something for every one of our PUSD students!