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When you love what you do, as we do, there’s nothing more inspiring than to connect with the thinkers, creatives, and doers of the next generation. As part of the Montgomery County Public School System’s Summer Rise program, we were delighted to host three high school students interested in the home remodeling, construction, and design industry. Summer Rise matches rising juniors and seniors with businesses based on their field of interest to engage in hands-on learning. Rising juniors Jackson, Sika, and Timur joined us at our headquarters and design studio in Rockville, Maryland.
For two weeks in July, three of our expert team members took the lead in guiding our young guests through their experience. Together, Carlos Montes – Draftsman, Malisa Bunn – Interior Designer, and Matt Kanne – Project Manager, have more than 60 years of combined experience in the luxury home remodeling industry.
The students took on a group mock design project, joined us for our July Countertops evening event, and went on a field trip to visit local home design and renovation suppliers in the community. They also got to sit in on project design meetings and did site visits of current projects in production. Jackson and Timur really enjoyed working in our 3D CAD software, Chief Architect. Carlos, an architectural student at University of Maryland, created a challenging project for them where they designed a house from the ground up in our CAD program. Then they had to print it and create a 3D model of the home for them to keep. Even when the program was over, they came back to finish the group 3D model.
Meet our aspiring architects and designers:
Jackson: Jackson came in with an interest in architecture, with a special fascination with residential design/build/remodel opportunities and left us with a love for interior design. His vision is to play football in college before starting his own firm one day.
Sika: Interested in the construction and design field, Sika was eager to know a little bit about everything. She joined the program, “because why waste time if I can start my journey now?” After her House to Home Solutions experience, she discovered a passion for interior decorating and design.
Timur: Thinking he may be interested in architecture, Timur joined the Summer Rise program to explore career paths and to “get a better understanding of what my interests are” – as well as to get some work experience. After our time together, Timur confirmed a passion for architectural and structural design.
We couldn’t be prouder to know this group of young people. Their enthusiasm, determination, and passion are contagious. And it’s not just them! We had the honor of attending the Summer Rise closing ceremonies, which was “insane!” according to our CEO, Daniel Carrero. More than 1,100 students participated in this summer’s program—and more than 3,000 applied! Clearly, the Summer Rise team is doing something right, to capture the curiosity and imagination of so many high school students.
Looking ahead, we have no doubt that Jackson, Sika, and Timur will excel in their careers. We wish them much success and happiness and offer these words of wisdom:
- If someone else can do something, so can you! Don’t ever say you can’t do something. You may have to research and learn but you can do it. Only trying will make you better.
- Don’t ever be afraid to ask questions! It’s ok to not know something. Asking shows you care and that you want to learn.
- Learn from your mistakes! They only make you better.
Thank you and well done, Summer Rise team! Jackson, Sika, and Timur – we’re here! Let us know your next steps. We believe in you and look forward to hearing about your continued success.
