communications
Building Design & Construction
Superintendent’s Building Design & Construction Communication
Subject: Skills Lab in Action: Preparing Students for the Future of Our Region
Dear Families, Staff, and Community Partners,
This month, our districts are focusing on one of the most important—and fastest-growing—career sectors on the Central Coast: Building Design & Construction. Through our K12 Regional Skills Lab, students from kindergarten through 6th grade are diving into hands-on lessons that introduce them to the designers, builders, engineers, and project leaders who shape the spaces where we live, learn, and work.
From architectural design and electrical wiring to HVAC engineering, structural integrity, safety inspections, and project management, students are getting an inside look at the full ecosystem of careers that bring buildings to life. These lessons help our youngest learners explore problem-solving, teamwork, planning, and real-world applications of math and science—skills that are essential for success in every future pathway.
Why Building Design & Construction Matters for Our Region
The Central Coast is experiencing rapid growth—and with it, a significant demand for skilled workers in construction and design-related fields. By preparing students early, we are helping build both economic mobility for families and long-term prosperity for our region.
Here are a few key trends that highlight why this work is so important:
Construction is one of the top five largest employment sectors on the Central Coast, supporting thousands of jobs every year.
The region faces a significant skills gap, with many local construction, engineering, and architecture firms reporting difficulty finding qualified workers.
California is projected to need over 30,000 new construction workers annually over the next decade to meet housing, infrastructure, and sustainability goals.
Trades such as electrical, framing, plumbing, and HVAC are among the highest-demand, highest-wage middle-skill careers, offering family-sustaining income without requiring a four-year degree.
Careers in civil engineering, structural engineering, and construction management are growing rapidly due to investments in climate-resilient infrastructure, school modernization, and green building.
Locally, industries aligned with REACH 2030—including sustainable construction, precision manufacturing, and infrastructure development—are projected to be major drivers of economic prosperity for the next generation.
When students engage with Building Design & Construction during elementary school, they begin to see that the homes, schools, parks, and businesses around them are created by real people with a wide range of skills—not just one job, but a coordinated team of architects, engineers, inspectors, electricians, framers, and project managers working together.
What Students Are Doing This Month
Across our classrooms, students are:
Designing model floorplans like architects
Building structures that withstand wind and vibration
Exploring how electricity powers buildings
Testing air duct systems to understand HVAC airflow
Learning how civil and structural engineers keep buildings safe
Practicing teamwork and problem-solving as “project managers”
Understanding how tradespeople bring designs to life with precision
These activities are more than just fun. They help students recognize their own strengths—whether they lean toward hands-on building, creative design, or analytical engineering—and begin imagining future careers right here in our region.
Connecting Classroom Learning to Community Prosperity
Our mission is not simply to teach students about careers—it’s to expand economic opportunity. Early exposure to high-skilled, high-wage industries helps students see themselves in fields they may not have otherwise considered. It also helps us grow the talent pipeline that local employers urgently need.
By building partnerships with architecture firms, engineering companies, and construction trades across the Central Coast, we are creating authentic learning experiences that connect students to the future of work happening around them.
This is how we strengthen our local economy.
This is how we create opportunity.
And this is how we help every student build a bright, prosperous future.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support of our schools. Together, we’re helping students imagine, design, and build the world they will inherit.
Warm regards,
[Superintendent’s Name]
Superintendent, [School District Name]
School Site Principal’s Building Design & Construction Communication
Subject: Skills Lab Spotlight: Exploring Building Design & Construction
Dear Families,
This month, we’re excited to spotlight our new K12 Regional Skills Lab theme: Building Design & Construction! Across grade levels, students will explore the world of buildings—from blueprints to final inspections—and meet the people and skills behind the places we live, learn, and play.
Construction is more than just hard hats and tool belts. It’s a team effort that includes designers, engineers, tradespeople, and project leaders—all working together to bring big ideas to life. This month, we’ll introduce students to several key roles in the building industry, helping them see how their classroom learning connects to real-world careers.
From learning how architects plan spaces, to understanding how framers and electricians bring those plans to life, to discovering how engineers design for safety and efficiency—students will see how each role contributes to a finished structure. They’ll also explore project management and HVAC system design, gaining insight into how coordination, comfort, and sustainability factor into every building. Whether your child is building with blocks or sketching their dream home, they’re gaining valuable awareness of how diverse careers come together to shape the world around us.
As always, these lessons are about more than just careers—they’re about building critical thinking, creativity, teamwork, and confidence. We hope you’ll ask your child what they’re building this month, and what role they might want to play in bringing ideas to life.
Thank you for your partnership as we help our students imagine, design, and build their futures—one skill at a time.
Warmly,
[Principal’s Name]
Principal, [School Name]
K12 Regional Skills Lab: The Tools for Success
This Month’s Theme: Building Design and Construction
This month, in the K12 Regional Skills Lab, your kindergartener participated in an exciting hands-on lesson titled "Building Big Dreams: Tools of Tomorrow’s Builders." They explored the world of building design and construction, discovering how tools help professionals like builders, architects, and engineers create the structures all around us—from houses to bridges to skyscrapers.
Learn more and watch this month’s industry spotlight video here:
https://k12skillslab.org/k/building
What Is the Building Design and Construction Industry?
The Building Design and Construction industry is essential to our communities, creating the homes, schools, hospitals, and roads we rely on every day. Skilled workers in this field bring ideas to life—whether they are designing blueprints, operating heavy machinery, or ensuring buildings are safe and strong.
With growing demand for housing, commercial spaces, and infrastructure, construction jobs are booming in the Central Coast region. Over the next 10 years, the industry is expected to grow by nearly 7%, adding thousands of jobs. This field offers many career pathways, from hands-on trade roles to high-tech design careers.
Careers and Earning Potential
If your child enjoys building, creating, or problem-solving, they might love a career in this field. Here are a few jobs they could explore:
Construction Workers – Build homes, schools, and offices.
Average salary: $45,000–$70,000
Training needed: High school diploma plus apprenticeshipCarpenters – Specialize in woodwork for buildings and furniture.
Average salary: $50,000–$80,000
Training needed: Trade school or apprenticeshipArchitects – Design buildings, from blueprints to final structures.
Average salary: $80,000–$120,000
Training needed: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in ArchitectureCivil Engineers – Plan and oversee major construction projects like roads and bridges.
Average salary: $90,000–$130,000
Training needed: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering
Extend the Learning at Home
Encourage your child’s curiosity about construction with a fun building challenge at home. Gather materials such as cardboard, LEGOs, or recycled items and ask them to design and build their dream house or a new playground for their school. Talk about the tools they would need in real life to bring their idea to life.
We love partnering with families to inspire the next generation of builders and innovators. Stay tuned for next month’s career exploration adventure!
K12 Regional Skills Lab: Building Big Dreams Together!
This Month’s Theme: Building Design & Construction
This month in the K12 Regional Skills Lab, your 1st grader became a junior builder through a hands-on lesson called "Let’s Build It: Craft Stick House Framing!" Students explored how buildings are made from the ground up by learning about framing—the wooden skeleton that gives shape and strength to houses, schools, and other buildings.
Using craft sticks, teamwork, and creativity, students worked in small groups to design and construct their own mini house frames. As they connected walls, roofs, and corners, they learned that shapes like rectangles and triangles are key to keeping buildings strong. It was a fun and meaningful way to introduce the tools, teamwork, and thinking skills that real-world builders use every day!
Learn more and watch this month’s industry spotlight video here:
https://k12skillslab.org/1/building
What Is the Building Design & Construction Industry?
This industry brings entire communities to life—constructing homes, offices, hospitals, roads, and more. Every project starts with an idea and is brought to life by a team that may include architects, engineers, and builders. It’s a field that combines design, math, creativity, and problem-solving.
Here on the Central Coast of California, the construction industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors, with nearly 7% projected job growth over the next decade. That means thousands of future opportunities for students interested in building, designing, or planning.
Careers in Building & Construction
If your child loves building, drawing, or creating with their hands, they might be interested in one of these exciting careers:
Architect – Designs buildings so they are both beautiful and functional.
Average Salary: $80,000–$120,000
Training: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture
Construction Worker – Uses tools and machinery to build homes, roads, and schools.
Average Salary: $45,000–$70,000
Training: High school diploma + apprenticeship
Structural Engineer – Makes sure buildings and bridges are strong and safe.
Average Salary: $90,000–$130,000
Training: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering
Construction Manager – Leads the entire building process from start to finish.
Average Salary: $90,000–$140,000
Training: Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management
Extend the Learning at Home!
Keep the building fun going at home! Try this simple family activity:
Build a Mini Home Together:
Grab some craft sticks, LEGOs, blocks, or recyclables.
Have one family member be the Architect and draw the plan.
Another can be the Builder and bring it to life.
A third can be the Inspector to check if it's strong and sturdy!
This activity helps children understand how collaboration and planning make big ideas possible.
Thank you for supporting your child’s career exploration journey. We’re proud to help our students build big dreams—one lesson at a time. Stay tuned for next month’s exciting hands-on career adventure!
K12 Regional Skills Lab: Engineering the Future!
This Month’s Theme: Building Design and Construction
This month, in the K12 Regional Skills Lab, your 2nd grader participated in an exciting lesson titled "Building the Future: Exploring Careers in Structural and Civil Engineering!" They stepped into the role of engineers, learning how these professionals design and build the structures we rely on every day—from bridges and skyscrapers to roads and tunnels. Through a fun hands-on challenge, students explored how engineers use creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork to ensure buildings and infrastructure are safe and strong.
Learn more and watch this month’s industry spotlight video here:
https://k12skillslab.org/2/building
What is Structural and Civil Engineering?
Structural and civil engineers are the problem-solvers behind the buildings, roads, and bridges we use every day. They design, test, and build structures to make sure they can withstand weather, weight, and time. Whether designing earthquake-resistant buildings or planning safe highways, engineers play a critical role in shaping our communities.
In the Central Coast of California, civil and structural engineers are in high demand, especially as cities grow and infrastructure needs modern upgrades. Over the next 10 years, job growth in this field is projected to increase by nearly 8%, offering many exciting career opportunities.
Careers & Earning Potential
If your child enjoys designing, building, and problem-solving, they may love a future in engineering! Here are a few career paths they could explore:
Structural Engineer – Designs and tests buildings, bridges, and towers to make sure they are safe.
Average salary: $90,000 - $130,000
Training needed: Bachelor's degree in Engineering
Civil Engineer – Plans and oversees construction projects like roads, tunnels, and airports.
Average salary: $85,000 - $120,000
Training needed: Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering
Extend the Learning at Home!
Encourage your child’s engineering creativity at home with a building challenge! Using spaghetti, marshmallows, or LEGO bricks, challenge them to build the tallest structure they can without it falling over. Ask them to think like an engineer: What makes a strong base? How can they balance the weight? Talk about how real engineers design buildings to stand up to wind, earthquakes, and heavy loads.
We love partnering with families to spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of builders, designers, and engineers. Stay tuned for next month’s career exploration adventure!
K12 Regional Skills Lab: Wired for Success!
This Month’s Theme: Building Design and Construction
This month, in the K12 Regional Skills Lab, your 3rd grader participated in an exciting lesson titled "Wired for Success: Exploring Careers in Construction and Electrician Trades!" They explored the critical role electricians play in the construction industry and got hands-on experience by building their own simple electrical circuit—just like real electricians do when wiring homes, schools, and offices!
Learn more and watch this month’s industry spotlight video here:
https://k12skillslab.org/3/building
What is the Electrician Trade?
Electricians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in homes, businesses, and public buildings. They ensure that lights turn on, outlets work, and technology functions safely and efficiently. Without electricians, modern life wouldn’t be possible!
In the Central Coast of California, electricians are in high demand, especially with the growth of renewable energy and new construction projects. Over the next 10 years, job openings in this field are expected to grow by 9%, creating great opportunities for those with the right skills.
Careers & Earning Potential
If your child enjoys working with their hands, solving problems, or building things, they might be interested in a career in the skilled trades! Here are a few exciting paths:
Electrician – Installs and repairs electrical systems in homes, businesses, and large buildings.
Average salary: $55,000 - $90,000
Training needed: High school diploma + apprenticeship + electrician certificationElectrical Engineer – Designs and tests electrical systems for buildings, power grids, and technology.
Average salary: $80,000 - $130,000
Training needed: Bachelor's degree in Electrical EngineeringHVAC Technician – Installs and maintains heating, cooling, and ventilation systems, which also involve electrical wiring.
Average salary: $50,000 - $85,000
Training needed: Trade school + certificationSolar Technician – Specializes in installing and maintaining solar power systems, a growing field in California.
Average salary: $45,000 - $75,000
Training needed: Apprenticeship or trade certification
Extend the Learning at Home!
Encourage your child to explore electricity at home with a simple circuit-building challenge! Using household items like a battery, a light bulb, and aluminum foil (as a wire substitute), see if they can create a working circuit like they did in class. Talk about why circuits are important and how electricians ensure homes and buildings have safe, reliable power.
We’re excited to partner with families in introducing students to the trades and career pathways that keep our communities running. Stay tuned for next month’s exciting career exploration adventure!
K12 Regional Skills Lab: Designing the Future with Architecture
This Month’s Theme: Building Design and Construction
This month, in the K12 Regional Skills Lab, your 4th grader explored the exciting world of architecture in a lesson titled "Building Tomorrow: Exploring Careers in Architecture!" They discovered how architects design the homes, schools, offices, and landmarks that shape our communities. Through hands-on activities, students designed their own floor plans and built small-scale models, learning the importance of creativity, planning, and problem-solving in architecture.
Learn more and watch this month’s industry spotlight video here:
https://k12skillslab.org/4/building
Is Architecture?
Architecture is the art and science of designing buildings and structures. Architects create the blueprints that guide construction, ensuring buildings are both functional and beautiful. They consider everything from safety and stability to materials and aesthetics when designing structures.
The Central Coast of California is experiencing a growing demand for architects, as new homes, businesses, and public spaces are needed to support local communities. Over the next 10 years, jobs in architecture and related fields are expected to grow by 5–7%, offering many opportunities for those who love designing, drawing, and solving problems.
Careers and Earning Potential
If your child enjoys drawing, building, or thinking creatively about spaces, they might be interested in a career in architecture. Here are a few jobs in this field:
Architect – Designs buildings, from houses to skyscrapers, making sure they are safe, functional, and visually appealing.
Average salary: $80,000–$120,000
Training needed: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture plus professional licensing
Urban Planner – Helps design cities, parks, and neighborhoods to create livable and efficient spaces.
Average salary: $75,000–$100,000
Training needed: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Urban Planning or Architecture
Interior Designer – Designs the interiors of buildings, choosing materials, furniture, and layouts to make spaces functional and attractive.
Average salary: $55,000–$85,000
Training needed: Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design or related field
Structural Engineer – Works alongside architects to ensure buildings are strong, stable, and safe.
Average salary: $90,000–$130,000
Training needed: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering
Extend the Learning at Home
Encourage your child’s design and planning skills with a fun “Family Architecture Challenge.” Give them graph paper or building materials such as blocks or LEGOs, and ask them to design their dream house, a treehouse, or a new school building. Talk about what features are important—windows for natural light, sturdy walls, or creative spaces for fun and relaxation. Discuss how architects turn ideas into reality through careful planning and teamwork.
We’re excited to partner with families to inspire the next generation of designers, builders, and problem-solvers. Stay tuned for next month’s career exploration!
K12 Regional Skills Lab: Project Manager Power! Weatherproof the Build
This Month’s Theme: Building Design & Construction
This month, in the K12 Regional Skills Lab, your 5th grader became a Project Manager and Construction Engineer in the lesson “Windy City: Weatherproof the Build!” Students stepped onto a simulated job site where they worked in teams to design and build a structure strong enough to withstand powerful gusts of wind. Using craft materials, role cards, and real-world constraints, they took on authentic construction roles—Project Manager, Materials Manager, Builders, and Inspector—to plan, budget, problem-solve, and adapt to unexpected “plot twists” on the job site.
Through hands-on engineering challenges, students experienced firsthand how construction teams collaborate, think critically, and manage changing conditions to keep a project on track—just like real builders and project managers do every day.
Learn more and watch this month’s industry spotlight video here:
https://k12skillslab.org/5/building
What Do Project Managers & Construction Teams Do—and Why Does It Matter?
Every school, bridge, hospital, park, and home in our community exists because teams of builders, designers, and engineers worked together to create them. Project Managers play a central role in this process: they guide the team, solve problems, keep the project on schedule, and make sure plans stay within budget.
In the Central Coast region, the Building Design & Construction sector is expanding rapidly. Skilled project managers, builders, and inspectors are in high demand as our communities grow and as new, sustainable building technologies emerge. These careers offer stable, high-wage opportunities across both residential and commercial construction.
Fast Facts About Construction & Project Management Careers
Construction and building jobs make up one of the largest industries on the Central Coast, supporting thousands of local workers.
Project management is one of the fastest-growing roles in construction, with projected job growth of 10% nationally.
California is a leader in sustainable engineering and green building, increasing demand for workers skilled in planning, problem-solving, and adapting to new technologies.
Skilled construction managers earn $80,000–$140,000+ depending on experience and training.
Every major construction project—from roads to rocket launch facilities—relies on teamwork, communication, budgeting, and adaptability.
Careers & Earning Potential in Building Design & Construction
If your child enjoys building things, solving problems, working on teams, or leading others, they may be drawn to one of these high-opportunity careers:
Construction Project Manager: Leads teams, oversees budgets, manages schedules, and ensures the build meets safety and design requirements.
Average salary: $90,000–$150,000
Training: Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related fieldConstruction Trades (Carpenter, Electrician, Plumber): Builds, installs, and maintains essential systems in homes and buildings.
Average salary: $50,000–$100,000+
Training: Apprenticeships or technical college programsBuilding Inspector: Ensures structures meet safety codes and quality standards—exactly the role students practiced in class!
Average salary: $60,000–$110,000
Training: Certification programs + technical training
Extend the Learning at Home!
Help your child practice project management by giving them a real household responsibility:
1. Project Manager Chore
Assign a task—organizing a shelf, cleaning a shared space, or helping with a simple meal. Have them plan the steps, gather materials, complete the task, and reflect on what went well.
2. Budget a Small Job
Choose a small project (planting, baking, fixing something) and give your child a small budget. They decide what materials to buy and how to stay within the budget.
3. Plot Twist Challenge
Add one surprise—limited time, a missing tool, or a helper who’s suddenly unavailable. Ask how they adapt their plan, just like in class.
By exploring the world of construction and project management, students are learning valuable skills in teamwork, budgeting, engineering, and real-world problem-solving—skills that are essential for high-demand careers across our region. Stay tuned for next month’s exciting career exploration adventure!
K12 Regional Skills Lab: HVAC Design Heroes! Creating Comfort & Clean Air
This Month’s Theme: Building Design, Energy, & Sustainability
This month, in the K12 Regional Skills Lab, your 6th grader stepped into the role of a Mechanical, HVAC, and Plumbing (MEP) Designer in the lesson “HVAC Design Hero: Designing for Comfort and Climate!” Students explored how heating, cooling, and ventilation systems keep buildings comfortable, healthy, and energy-efficient. Through a hands-on engineering challenge, they designed and tested their own working air duct systems—learning how airflow, system design, and sustainability all come together to shape the spaces where we live, learn, and work.
Using bendy straws, duct fittings, foam balls, and air pumps, students tackled a real-world problem: a “new classroom” with poor air circulation. Acting as HVAC designers, they planned, built, tested, and improved their duct systems to deliver air evenly across three different zones. Along the way, they learned how engineering teams solve airflow problems and make buildings more efficient and environmentally friendly.
Learn more and watch this month’s industry spotlight video here:
https://k12skillslab.org/6/building
What Do HVAC Designers and Engineers Do—and Why Does It Matter?
Every comfortable, healthy building—from homes to hospitals to schools—depends on HVAC designers and engineers. These professionals create systems that control temperature, filter dust and allergens, circulate clean air, and reduce energy consumption.
In California and across the Central Coast, HVAC and mechanical design careers are growing rapidly due to new construction, green building codes, and the need for climate-friendly, energy-efficient systems. These careers combine engineering, sustainability, and problem-solving—making them both high-impact and high-opportunity for students.
Fast Facts About HVAC & Mechanical Engineering Careers
Heating, cooling, and ventilation account for up to 40% of a building’s total energy use—making HVAC design essential for sustainability.
Demand for HVAC technicians and designers is expected to grow by 12% nationwide, faster than average.
Mechanical engineers earn $80,000–$130,000+, depending on experience and specialization.
California leads the nation in green building standards, increasing the need for workers trained in efficient HVAC and ventilation systems.
Good ventilation improves health, concentration, and indoor air quality, especially in schools and workplaces.
Careers in HVAC, Mechanical Engineering & Sustainable Building
If your child enjoys science, math, building things, or solving real-world problems, they may be drawn to these career paths:
Mechanical Engineer: Designs heating, cooling, and mechanical systems that power buildings.
Average salary: $85,000–$130,000HVAC System Designer: Plans duct layouts, airflow patterns, and efficient ventilation systems.
Average salary: $60,000–$100,000HVAC Technician: Installs, repairs, and maintains climate-control systems in homes and businesses.
Average salary: $50,000–$85,000
Extend the Learning at Home!
Give your child a household responsibility that helps them think like an HVAC designer:
1. Airflow Helper at Home
Ask your child to check each room for airflow by noticing which rooms feel warmer, cooler, or stuffier. They can report back to you like a real engineer.
2. Vent Detective
Have your child identify vents or fans in your home and make a simple sketch of airflow in one room. They can suggest one improvement—opening a vent, moving furniture, or adding a fan.
Future Ready Skills
This lesson helped students strengthen critical thinking, collaboration, and engineering design—skills essential for the next generation of STEM professions. As climate change drives the need for cleaner, greener, and more efficient buildings, careers in HVAC, mechanical engineering, and sustainable design are expanding quickly. Students who enjoy hands-on problem-solving and making environments healthier for people will find exciting opportunities in these Future Ready fields.