The Trade Skill Learning Center began early in the new year at Hosanna Industries, after many years of moving toward this goal of establishing a top-notch, reputable learning center where underprivileged people would be charitably taught how to productively work with their hands in pursuit of building a better world for others and a better life for oneself.

As we near the end of the semester 1 of a contemplated 9 semesters within a 3 year program, I believe a great deal has been learned already. Currently, our student body is comprised of 1 young man from Butler and 9 young men from Homewood.

Topics covered thus far include: Attributes of a Builder, Fundamental Builder Math including basic algebra and geometry, Carpentry Tool Familiarization and Basic Technique, Tape Measure Proficiency including fractions and decimal conversions, Fundamental Design and Drafting Methods, Scale-Model building, full-scale Basic Residential Framing, Truss Design and Proper Construction, Roof System Construction including proper bracing, Basic Electrical Theory and Practical Technique, Window and Door Installation, Insulation, Finishing, Introductory Drywall Installation and Finishing and Introductory Painting.

Throughout the term, lessons have been continuously provided with respect to safety, economy, efficiency, and high productivity.

In the little time remaining for Semester 1, we will learn: Basic Siding Installation, Roofing, Interior Trim, Flooring, and Proper Completion of a simple project.

As a practical and test stage, the students when not in the classroom setting have been building by hand and under proper supervision a small 12′ x 16′ micro-house, suitable for use as a hunting and fishing cabin, a spacious young boy’s backyard fort or a young girl’s backyard playhouse, a large tool shed or outbuilding, a writer’s retreat, etc. We intend to complete this project house by semester’s end and would like to sell it to an interested party, using proceeds to offset anticipated expenses in the second semester. If interested, please call Amy Ed at the Hosanna office 724-770-0262.

Our country is and will be in dire need of young, strong, capable, diligent, proficient, honest, productive builders. A great future is available to the young man or woman of today who is willing to invest greatly in learning how to become tomorrow’s expert builder! Please pray that our current students may find the internal drive to commit themselves to this worthwhile goal, and that future candidates may be led to Hosanna, so that their tomorrows can be full of faith, work, and success along life’s way.

-Donn Ed, Executive Director