Walking into the Industrial Arts wing at Montevideo High School, you’ll find more than just a standard woodworking class; you’ll find a fully operational business. HawkBuilt is a student-run manufacturing educational program that is officially open for business which gives students a front-row seat to the world of professional trade and entrepreneurship.
While some shop classes focus solely on the build, HawkBuilt students are responsible for the entire conception of a product. This comprehensive approach includes:
Client Relations: Students take direct orders from community members and local businesses, maintaining professional communication from the first inquiry to the final delivery.
Project Management: Once an order is placed, students organize their own build teams, delegating tasks and managing timelines to meet deadlines.
Operations & Logistics: Beyond the craftsmanship, the team handles the essential "business" side of the shop—calculating material costs for accurate pricing and ensuring products are professionally packaged for their new owners.
"HawkBuilt is about more than just sawdust and safety glasses," says Industrial Arts teacher Matthew Olson. "It’s a career and technical education program designed to provide students with high-level job skills. We are using advanced machinery to create custom products, but we are also building the soft skills—like communication and problem-solving—that local employers are looking for."
The program specializes in a variety of custom-made goods, including: Wood cutting boards, Corn Hole boards, Cribbage boards, Handcrafted furniture and custom signage to name a few.
By blending traditional woodworking with modern business management, Montevideo High School is ensuring that its graduates are prepared for the workforce.
Support our Student Builders
Are you interested in commissioning a project or learning more about the program? Visit the HawkBuilt website to see our current work and find out how you can support our student entrepreneurs.