Daniel Carrero, President, and Matthew Kanne, Project Manager, were recently chosen as volunteer judges at the local SkillsUSA Competition at Thomas Edison High School of Technology in Silver Spring, Maryland.
Their participation in the December 10 event marks another milestone in House to Home Solutions’ ongoing commitment to community outreach and inspiring the next generation of professionals in the design/build remodeling industry. Commitment to community, especially in fostering the area youth's interest in learning aspects of the industry, is a personal passion of Daniel’s and consequently permeates the culture of House to Home Solutions, all employees are encouraged to share their skills and knowledge to inspire and encourage the next generation of the workforce.
Daniel judged the Architecture division of the competition, and Matthew judged the Carpentry. Architecture competitors visited Tridelphia Reservoir Dam and were given two days to draw architectural plans for a nature center. The plans for the Tridelphia Dam nature center needed to include a children’s area, a kitchenette for staff, restrooms, a classroom, an exhibition area, an entry reception area, and an office. All areas were given size specifications that were to be met and judged. The carpentry competitors were tasked to build a proper door opening to demonstrate their framing skills.
Daniel was impressed by the sophistication and quality of plans that competitors produced with such limited time. Most students were in their first semester of the Architecture Program. Matthew found it notable and refreshing that an increasing number of young women have become interested in the field of carpentry, both shattering gender biases about carpenters and contributing to the self-sufficiency and empowerment of women.
Three winners were chosen from each of the Architecture and Carpentry categories, and these winners will compete in the Regional Competition in early 2025. Winners from the Regional Competition will then advance to the State Competition.