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NEW BRITAIN -- Students at E.C. Goodwin Vocational Technical School
are helping to renovate an apartment house, bridging the gap between
school and community, as well as school and the workplace.
Nearly 60 students in four separate shop areas will help to transform
the hollow brick structure at 76 Silver St. into an apartment house.
This is the first time in many years that Goodwin’s electronic,
carpentry, plumbing and HVAC students have tackled such a project and
David Pudlow, heating department head, believes it brings the students
closer to the community.
"This will be a project that involves all the construction trades, and
it will allow students to get real-world experience and practical
training," Pudlow said. "We always look for jobs that put us closer to
the community, and this project shows how our school supports the
community."
Neighborhood Housing Services of New Britain reached out to Goodwin to
help with the project. Bill Shannon, construction coordinator for
Neighborhood Housing Services, said an association was formed with the
school as part of the organization’s continuing efforts to provide home
ownership opportunities and build affordable housing for New Britain
residents.
Stephen Anderson, principal of Goodwin, emphasized the value of students
working in the community.
"I think it’s really important for students because they sharpen their
skills in the field. They also get to meet potential employers, and get
to contribute to the community. And some of our students may even be
interested in getting housing through Neighborhood Housing Services in
the future.
"Another advantage for our students is that the departments are working
together at the same site. They are working as a team to accomplish a
real project. I like the fact that it’s community based. It teaches a
sense of community. What this has done for us, it let other
organizations out there get to know what services we offer. They see our
positive reputation."
Students will install all of the plumbing. HVAC students will install
two boilers and a heating system. The carpentry students will build
outside decks, and the electrical students will replace the structure’s
electrical system. The project is expected to be completed by the end of
May.
Franchone Fraser-Ben Reuben Bey can be reached at ffraser@newbritainherald.com
or by calling (860) 225-4601, Ext. 306.
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