Inspiring Young Minds: The Junior Builder Program and Design Competition in Orange County
The recent Junior Builder Program and Design Competition, held in Rancho Mission Viejo, caught the attention of young aspiring designers, aged 9 to 14, from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Aliso Viejo and Capistrano Valley. Organized by the Building Industry Association of Southern California (BIASC), this two-day camp and competition provided a unique platform for youngsters to explore the exciting world of home design and construction. Through hands-on activities, virtual design labs, and expert guidance, participants gained valuable insights into the homebuilding industry.
A Hands-on Learning Experience
During the Junior Builder Program, participants were grouped into teams of four and engaged in virtual design labs. This innovative approach allowed them to glean inspiration from their surroundings, particularly through tours of Shea Homes in Rancho Mission Viejo, where they experienced firsthand the latest trends and technologies in homebuilding. The dynamic environment encouraged creativity and collaboration as students brainstormed and implemented their visions into tangible designs.
Showcasing Creativity and Talent
The culmination of the camp took place at the Canyon House Art Studio in Rancho Mission Viejo. Here, each team presented their unique designs to a panel of distinguished judges, including local officials from San Juan Capistrano and Orange County Fifth District Supervisor Katrina Foley. This occasion not only fostered community engagement but also allowed students to showcase their creative talents in a professional environment. The presence of notable judges added significance to the event, motivating participants to deliver their best work.
Celebrating Achievements and Teamwork
During the awards ceremony, teams were recognized for their hard work and ingenuity in various categories, including most entertaining design, best collaboration, and best overall design. The top award was presented to Jesse Flores, Alan Arellano, and William Lucano from the Boys & Girls Club of Aliso Viejo for their impressive single-story home design. This three-bedroom creation, equipped with a garage and pool, adhered to a budget of $100,000, showcasing not only creativity but also practical understanding of cost management. The pride and excitement among participants were evident, as they shared their experiences and creative processes.
Inspiring Future Generations
The Junior Builder Program, which began as a passion project by Jeff Montejano and his daughters, Mia and Maddie, aims to inspire youth from underserved communities. Launched six years ago, the program was designed to open doors to the homebuilding sector, particularly for youngsters who might not otherwise have access to such opportunities. Mia Montejano’s childhood fascination with home design ignited the spark for this initiative, with the use of digital tools like Roblox serving as an innovative means of engagement. The program emphasizes education and pathways to diverse careers in homebuilding.
Expanding the Scope and Influence
Since its inception, the Junior Builder Program has expanded its reach beyond Orange County, now serving youths across Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and Riverside counties. This growth demonstrates not only the necessity of such programs but also the children’s keen interest in exploring career opportunities in the construction and design fields. Mike Balsamo, senior vice president of government relations at Rancho Mission Viejo, highlighted the significance of exposing children to varied career paths, noting the growing demand for skilled professionals in homebuilding.
A Vision for the Future
As the Junior Builder Program continues to evolve, its mission remains focused on nurturing the next generation of creators and builders. With the increasing number of homes being constructed in communities like Rancho Mission Viejo, the importance of cultivating interest in homebuilding cannot be overstated. By inspiring children and providing immersive experiences, programs like these pave the way for a brighter, more skilled workforce in architecture, engineering, and design. The future of homebuilding looks promising, and the Junior Builder Program is undeniably at the forefront of this transformative journey.
This summer camp not only aims to educate but also empowers young minds to dream big and take active steps toward turning those dreams into reality in the world of home design and construction. The future is bright, and the Junior Builder Program is setting the foundation for success in this rewarding industry.
