Today, the Fort Walton Beach High School’s Building Trades program welcomed Okaloosa County School District administrators, school board members, and invited local business owners and community members to an exclusive preview of its student-built tiny house, currently under construction. Guests toured the ongoing project, observed Building Trades students applying professional-level carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and finishing skills, and met the talented FWBHS Project Management group, which will represent the school at the 2026 NAHB International Builders’ Show® (IBS) in Orlando this February.
“Our Building Trades students are gaining real-world skills that directly translate into high-demand careers, and this tiny house project is a remarkable example of hands-on learning at its best. We are incredibly proud of the craftsmanship, teamwork, and professionalism these students demonstrate every day. Supporting their journey to the International Builders’ Show is not just an investment in a trip; it’s an investment in the future workforce of Okaloosa County,” stated Superintendent Marcus Chambers.
The event officially launched the fundraising campaign to cover travel, registration, competition materials, and related expenses so the team can represent Fort Walton Beach High School on the international stage. While the tiny house will eventually be completed, inspected, and sold to benefit the program long-term, the immediate priority is raising the funds needed to get these students to Orlando. “This tiny house is a true workforce-development project where our students are learning to become tomorrow’s skilled trades professionals,” said Mr. James Martin, Building Trades instructor and former professional contractor. “Seeing our district leadership and the business community walk through a home our students are building from the ground up and hearing their excitement about supporting our trip to Orlando, means everything to these kids.”
“Our students have put their hearts, minds, and incredible skill into this tiny house, and we are so proud of what they’ve accomplished, stated Lindsey Smith, Principal of Fort Walton Beach High School. “This project represents the very best of Fort Walton Beach High School: innovation, dedication, and a commitment to high-quality career and technical education. We are thrilled to support this team as they take their talents to Orlando and compete on an international stage.”
Businesses and organizations interested in sponsoring the 2026 IBS competition trip, donating materials, or expressing early interest in the completed tiny house are encouraged to contact Mr. James Martin.