Hands-On Learning: The ACE Shanty Project
Every great career begins with inspiration and opportunity. For Fond du Lac High School students exploring tech ed, that journey often starts with the Architecture, Construction, and Engineering (ACE) Academy.
ACE Academy is in the midst of an exciting initiative: the ACE Shanty Raffle. The ACE Academy Ice Shanty project began as a platform for high school students to gain practical experience by constructing ice fishing shanties. Students develop critical skills by completing entire projects, mastering teamwork and problem-solving, and experiencing the profound satisfaction of creating something tangible.
Over the years, the ACE Shanties Program has evolved into a community-driven effort to promote construction education. By purchasing a $10 raffle ticket, supporters get a chance to win a custom-built ice shanty and directly contribute to programs that provide students with technical skills and real-world experience. It's about more than constructing a functional structure—it's about building pathways to future careers.
2024 Skilled Trades Construction Grants
As students demonstrate their skills and passion, community partners step in to support next steps. In partnership with Fond du Lac Area Foundation in 2024, C.D. Smith offered two types of grants for students pursuing careers in construction: The Skilled Trades Construction Grant and the Construction Management Grant.
Top: Connie Coon, Holly Brenner, Greg Sabel / Middle: Austin Loehr, Lukas Halbach, Dave Supple / Bottom: John Kowalski, Callie Woelfel, Grace Fowler (not pictured, Jackson Goldapske & Mason Forster)
Numerous applications were received from talented and ambitious students who aspire to make their mark in the construction industry. Three graduating high school seniors were selected for the Skilled Trades Construction Grant and three individuals pursuing technical or undergraduate degrees for the Construction Management Grant.
The skilled trades grant winners are awarded funds for eligible expenses such as hand tools, work boots, high-visibility clothing, safety gloves, and tool belts/tool storage. The construction management grant winners are awarded funds directly to their four-year or two-year school.
Celebrating the 2024 Grant Winners
Construction Management Grant Recipients:
Why Skilled Trades Matter
The skilled trades are an essential yet underexplored career path for many young people. Programs like these grants and the ACE Academy Ice Shanty project shine a light on opportunities available in construction:
Get Involved
Whether you're a student considering your future or someone passionate about supporting construction education, there are plenty of ways to get involved:
By investing in the next generation of skilled trades and construction professionals, we're supporting more than successful careers—we're building stronger communities. Because when young talent succeeds, we all benefit.
Date: January 20, 2025 | Author: Tracy Lisowe
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