FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) — Friday marked judgment day for high school construction students from across Fresno County as they competed in the Central California Builders Exchange Design Build Competition.
What began as a construction-focused contest three years ago has expanded into a larger career technical education event, now featuring disciplines such as welding and automotive.
Organizers say the competition is designed to expose Valley students to multiple career paths and give them hands-on experience tied to real-world industry standards.
“It’s just been so amazing that I’d be able to know that I have options after,” said Albert Gutierrez, a Madera High senior.
Students were tasked with designing and building an 8-by-10 structure, putting their power tool skills to the test while meeting professional construction requirements.
Madera High claimed first place as the Design Build Ready Frame Champions and was awarded a $3,000 check.
The competition activities stretched over multiple days.
On Wednesday, hundreds of teams worked throughout the Caruthers fairgrounds during the third annual Design Build Competition, transforming parts of the site amid the sounds of hammering, sawing and welding as students collaborated on their projects.
The event was hosted in collaboration with the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools and brought together students and industry professionals from across the region.
Several real-world partners participated, including Swinerton, which worked with students from Madera and Mendota ahead of the competition.
“We teach them certain phases of the construction process as well as business development, how to pitch what they’re selling,” said Erich Klemme of Swinerton.
Community-based businesses also played a role. Elite Private Landscaping, a women- and minority-owned Valley company, took part in the event to support students preparing to enter the workforce.
“The kids here during this event are the next generation to be building tomorrow’s future,” said Sarah Souza, general manager of Elite Private Landscaping.
Among the participants was Enterprise High School sophomore Abigail Gastelum, who helped build a bench at the fairgrounds as part of her team’s project.
“I think it’s a good experience. I’m glad people are going to see this, and when I come back, I’m going to see it and know that I had a part in helping create it,” Gastelum said.
This year’s competition also broke new ground by featuring two all-girls teams from Madera High for the first time. In addition, two students were awarded the Golden Hammer, an honor recognizing leadership, attitude and potential.
Organizers said the continued growth of the Design Build Competition reflects increasing interest in career technical education and the demand for skilled workers across multiple industries, with students gaining exposure to potential futures through hands-on learning close to home.
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