October 15, 2025

Chico State Students Gain Hands-On Experience at Inspire School Construction Site

here-intlog
October 15, 2025
7:19 am
Indianapolis, IN

News Summary

Construction management and engineering students from Chico State recently visited the Inspire School of Arts campus construction site, collaborating with local construction firms. This hands-on learning experience allowed students to engage with industry professionals, discussing vital topics like planning and budgeting. The project, funded by state and local resources, has been in development for over a decade, aiming to create a creative educational environment. This initiative highlights the importance of practical experience and collaboration between educational institutions and the construction industry.

Chico, California – Construction management and engineering students from Chico State University recently gained valuable hands-on experience at the new Inspire School of Arts campus construction site. This on-site learning opportunity took place on September 26, 2023, thanks to a collaboration between the Chico Unified School District (CUSD) and several construction companies.

The tour, organized by the CUSD Facilities Team in conjunction with Modern Building Company and McGuire and Hester, allowed students to engage directly with construction professionals. Students held discussions on essential topics, including the planning, budgeting, and design of the project, providing them with practical insights into the industry.

Gareth Feldstein, a construction manager with CUSD and a graduate from Chico State’s construction management program, highlighted the benefits of gaining real-world experience through site visits. Feldstein emphasized that hands-on opportunities play a critical role in equipping students with the knowledge and skills essential for their future careers in engineering and construction. He intends to bring more students to the site for further educational experiences in the upcoming semester and beyond.

The Inspire School of Arts campus project has been in development for over a decade, with the total funding amounting to $34 million, sourced from both state and local funds, primarily through Measures K and C. The new campus will be situated on a 7.5-acre plot along Freemont Street, aiming to foster a creative educational environment for future generations.

This collaboration between educational institutions and construction firms serves as a model for similar partnerships that enhance learning opportunities and inspire career paths in construction and engineering fields. By connecting students with industry professionals, such collaborative efforts not only enrich the students’ academic experience but also prepare them to enter a competitive job market upon graduation.

The opportunity for students to learn on-site aligns with broader educational goals, emphasizing the importance of practical experience in an academic setting. As the Inspire School of Arts campus continues to take shape, both students and educators look forward to more opportunities that facilitate hands-on learning and professional interaction, equipping future leaders with the tools they need for success in the industry.

Overall, the involvement of Chico State students at the construction site represents an innovative approach to education, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in the fields of construction management and engineering. With ongoing support from CUSD and construction partners, students can anticipate continued access to valuable resources that underscore the significance of experiential learning.