Woodacre’s own licensed contractor Tom Eller gives Marin County teens and adults a hands-on pathway into the construction trade through a long-running regional occupational program at Redwood High School in Larkspur.
This course mixes real-world building projects with classroom lessons. Students don’t just study theory—they leave with something real: quality-built sheds scattered across Marin, from San Rafael to Fairfax, all up to residential building codes.
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Building Skills and Community Across Marin County
Eller’s construction technology class isn’t just another vocational program—it’s a bit of a legacy around here. Contractor Joe Downey started it three decades ago, and now Eller leads the charge with nine volunteer general contractors.
They mentor about 30 students each session, teaching skills that open doors into the busy construction scene in Mill Valley, Novato, Corte Madera, and beyond.
Hands-On Learning Through Real Projects
The big draw? Learning by doing. Students jump right in, building storage and garden sheds for local residents.
Over the years, they’ve built more than 100 sheds, each priced between $2,600 and $4,200 depending on size. Customers just pay for materials.
The program gets additional funding from the Marin County Office of Education and support from the Marin Builders Association. This partnership keeps community ties strong from Sausalito to Kentfield.
Accessible Enrollment for Students and the Community
One standout feature is how easy it is to join. High school students get in for free, making it a practical extracurricular that’s actually useful.
Community members who aren’t in high school pay just $65—a bargain compared to similar vocational training in the Bay Area.
Wide-Ranging Curriculum
The curriculum covers every stage of construction, including:
- Tool safety and proper use
- Framing techniques
- Flooring installation
- Roofing methods
- Wall construction
- Blueprint reading
- Green building practices
This range of skills gets participants ready for internships with local construction firms in places like Tiburon, Ross, and Greenbrae.
Impact Beyond the Job Site
Technical skills matter, but there’s more to it. Redwood High student Hannah Lacey said the class opened up her understanding of architectural design and helped her communicate better.
She also made new friends along the way. In a place as community-minded as Marin, these people skills carry real value.
Green Building and Sustainable Practices
Eller weaves green building techniques into the coursework, keeping in step with Marin County’s environmental values. Students get ready to meet modern sustainability standards—an edge for anyone working on eco-friendly home renovations in Sausalito or solar-ready housing in Novato.
Upcoming Session and How to Apply
Residents who want to learn trade skills have a clear way in. The next session runs Wednesdays from January 7 to May 13 at Redwood High School in Larkspur.
Applications are due by December 8, so there’s still time for aspiring builders from Fairfax, San Anselmo, and all over Marin to claim a spot.
An Investment in Marin’s Future Workforce
This program does more than create sheds. It shapes futures.
With affordable training and seasoned mentorship, it brings people together. Community involvement adds another layer, strengthening Marin’s workforce and meeting local needs.
Maybe you’re a teenager figuring out your path. Or maybe you’re a Mill Valley resident who wants practical skills.
Tom Eller’s construction technology class gives you a real shot at a well-paying, in-demand trade.
For Marin County residents, here’s a rare chance to get professional-level construction training close to home. You’ll also contribute to projects that actually matter in your community.
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Here is the source article for this story: Marin students learn construction skills
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