Van Wert, Ohio — Students in the Carpentry program at Vantage Career Center are gaining real-world skills and standing out in masonry, showcasing impressive craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Carpentry Student, Delana Noggle, stated that the program builds a strong foundation during the junior year, where students develop essential skills in safely using hand and power tools, reading blueprints, and working with industry technology. Along the way, students earn valuable certifications, including OSHA 10-Hour, ICRA, and multiple equipment operation credentials. These skills are applied through hands-on projects such as birdhouses, totes, and CNC-designed step stools.

Noggle added that this year’s masonry training took those skills even further. With guidance from guest instructor Gary Hunter of Weigand Construction, students focused on mastering precision and ensuring their work was level, flush, and plumb. Through graded masonry projects, students demonstrated not only their technical abilities, but also a high level of craftsmanship that reflects real-world industry standards.

Five students advanced to an in-class masonry competition on February 27, 2026: Colton Kimmel, Cole Miller, Kaden Gause, Zander Coil, and Townsend Wilkinson.

Pictured from left to right: Kaden Gause and Cole Miller from Crestview showcasing their masonry project.

Competitors were challenged to recreate a past SkillsUSA design within three hours, demonstrating high-level skill and accuracy. Cole Miller of Crestview Local Schools earned the top score and will advance to the SkillsUSA Masonry Competition in Columbus on May 5, 2026.

In their senior year, students continue building their skills through a real home construction project in Latty, Ohio, gaining daily job site experience.  For more than 20 years, Carpentry Instructor Jerry Robinson has led the program at Vantage Career Center, bringing real-world experience in home construction and a strong emphasis on life skills that prepare students for the workforce. Students interested in the program are encouraged to attend events such as 8th grade tours, sophomore visit days, Build Your Future, and Taste of Vantage, and to apply early following their sophomore tour, as space is limited. 

Students enrolled at Vantage also remain connected to their home schools, with the ability to participate in extracurricular activities, pep rallies, and other events, making it a well-rounded opportunity for those looking to build both skills and a future in the trades.