Hampton and Unaka High Schools triumph at Battle of the Build with 1950s Man Cave Theme

Published 1:43 pm Friday, December 8, 2023

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FROM STAFF REPORTS
The Battle of the Build, an annual showcase of talent and craftsmanship, witnessed an extraordinary display of skill as Hampton and Unaka High Schools emerged victorious, claiming the top spot with their meticulously crafted 1950s man cave-themed entry. The seamless blend of creativity, innovation, and exceptional craftsmanship not only secured them the coveted first place but also captured the popular vote, a testament to their outstanding work. Elizabethton High School celebrated its distinction as the second-place winner in this year’s competition, held at the Northeast State Technical Education Complex on Saturday, Dec. 2. This engaging event was proudly sponsored by Eastman Credit Union.
The Battle of the Build, organized by the Johnson City Area Home Builders Association (JCAHBA), stands as a foundational workforce development outreach program. It aims to foster essential connections between local students, educators, employers, and professionals who have forged successful careers in manufacturing, trades, and related businesses.
High schools from the area participate by conceptualizing, planning, and constructing a project that is then presented to a panel of esteemed judges from the national building industry. Throughout the process, JCAHBA members serve as mentors, guiding and supporting their assigned schools, lending their expertise and knowledge to enhance the students’ learning experience.
The competition weighs projects against criteria in five distinct categories: presentation, build quality, finish quality, creativity, and complexity. Awards are allocated to the top three positions, acknowledging the exceptional effort and ingenuity displayed by the participating schools.
In addition to the main awards, special recognition is accorded through the Popular Vote, showcasing the project that garners the most public admiration. The Battle of the Build also presents two distinguished accolades: the Chairman’s Choice Award, personally selected by the Chairman of the Board of the National Association of Home Builders, and the Builders’ Choice Award, decided by members of the Johnson City Area Home Builders Association or any HBA across Tennessee. These recognitions celebrate the uniqueness and excellence of standout projects.
The Battle of the Build VII witnessed spirited participation from numerous schools, including Cherokee, Daniel Boone, David Crockett, and many others, each showcasing their innovative skills and dedication. This year’s event stood as a testament to the commitment and talent of the next generation in cultivating skills and technical prowess in the construction and allied industries.

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