Hamilton High School (HHS) officially launched its new SPARK Construction Program on September 1 at a Tim O’Brien Homes residential construction site in Sussex’s Vista Run subdivision. Twelve HHS students will visit the job site each school day and work alongside industry professionals to build a house from the ground up while earning high school credit.
“I am really excited for these students to learn far more than anything that I can give them in a classroom,” Hamilton High School Technology Education Teacher Alan Mamerow told those in attendance. “This is an amazing experience. I can give students some mock electrical and mock plumbing at school. But I cannot give them anything like what they are going to experience on this job site,” Mamerow explained. “I am super excited to see all the things that they learn and all the things that I learn along the way as well.”
Hamilton is the latest Wisconsin high school to take part in the Tim O’Brien Homes School Building Trades Program. The program began in 2011 and encourages students to learn and gain hands-on experience in the building industry. From site survey and framing to final occupancy, students work with industry professionals to actively participate in the building of a home.
“The launch of the SPARK Construction Program represents an exciting investment in our students and their futures,” said Hamilton High School Associate Principal and Extended Learning Coordinator Marquea Goike. “This experience gives students the opportunity to apply their learning in a meaningful way while developing the skills, confidence and professional relationships that will serve them well beyond high school,” added Goike.
Construction is one of several career pathways students are invited to explore through SPARK, which just launched at the start of the 2026-27 school year. SPARK will provide students with opportunities to engage in relevant work that builds critical employability skills such as communication, collaboration, problem-solving and professionalism. Through multiple program strands, students will explore a variety of career pathways, helping them discover how their interests and talents align with future opportunities.
Families, business partners and community members are invited to SPARK Info Night in January to learn more about the program and explore ways to get involved.
SPARK Info Night
Wednesday, January 20, 2027
5:30 – 7 p.m.
Hamilton High School Little Theater
The SPARK Construction Program reflects Hamilton High School’s commitment to expanding career-focused learning opportunities that prepare students for college, careers, and life through authentic, hands-on experiences. As construction begins on the home, the inaugural class of SPARK students is laying the foundation not only for a new house, but for successful futures in the skilled trades and beyond.