New House Build, Now Open for Sealed Bids
Pipestone, MN – Minnesota West Community and Technical College is proud to announce the completion of a new student-built home, created in partnership between the Carpentry and Plumbing programs on the Pipestone campus. The home is now open for sealed bid offers, with submissions due by Thursday, June 5 at 2:00 PM. A public viewing event for interested bidders will be held on Friday, May 30, from 3 PM-7 PM.
The Spring 2024 Carpentry class developed the full design plans for the home, laying the foundation for the Fall 2024/2025 students to take on the build as a real-world learning project. In previous years, Carpentry and Plumbing students at Minnesota West have renovated and revitalized local properties, turning them into fully functional, like-new homes. These projects were made possible through a collaboration with Pipestone Area Schools (PAS), the City of Pipestone, the Pipestone Economic Development Authority (EDA), and local businesses. The initiative aimed to provide students with hands-on education and valuable trade skills while also improving the community by cleaning up properties and increasing the availability of high-quality housing.
“This new home construction project was a tremendous success,” said Shawn Berning, Carpentry Instructor at Minnesota West. “Having the house on campus meant students had tools and materials at their fingertips, resulting in efficient learning and an energized classroom. It’s the most motivated I’ve seen our students in my six years of teaching. We finished the exterior in just over 20 days.”
Tom Bohlke, Plumbing Instructor, emphasized the benefits of new construction over renovation work. “Unlike EDA home renovations, where hidden issues delayed our instruction, this project ran smoothly. Students were able to complete everything from layout to air testing before winter break, and all work passed state inspection. This kind of hands-on, real-world education is invaluable.”
This student-built home represents more than just academic success. It’s a product of collaboration, hard work, and forward-thinking education. Fully inspected and code-compliant in plumbing, mechanical, and electrical systems, the energy-efficient ranch-style home is ideal for a family seeking quality and affordability.
By purchasing this home, not only are buyers investing in a quality property, but they’re also directly supporting the next generation of skilled trade professionals.
Sealed Bid Information:
Viewing Date: Friday, May 30 from 3 PM - 7 PM at the Minnesota West Pipestone Campus
Bid Deadline: Thursday, June 5, by 2:00 PM