Kentucky Ag Connection - BSCTC Construction Technology Builds APPYS Set

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BSCTC Construction Technology Builds APPYS Set
Kentucky Ag Connection - 06/29/2022

The Construction Technology Program at Big Sandy Community and Technical College (BSCTC) is always hard at work building masterpiece homes in Cross Creek, Johnson County. This past semester they expanded their blueprint to include the theatrical set for the Appalachian Arts & Entertainment Awards (APPYS) held during April at the Mountain Arts Center. In fact, this set was the largest set that has ever been on the MAC stage.

When the Construction Technology Program was approached by BSCTC/MAC Assistant Director of Fine Arts and APPYS Founder Jill Hamlin, Professor Adam McGinnis and his students were immediately excited to use their skills to diversify their work. Students continued learning carpentry techniques while being an integral part of stage production. "My students loved doing this project. We laid out the plans for the stage on our Mayo Campus floor and chalked out all the lines that were the MAC stage. They produced a series of 8'x8' and 6'x8' platforms with many angles as puzzle pieces to form an intricate stage set. The actual assembly took place on the MAC stage, allowing the construction students the opportunity to experience backstage and the production of the performing arts.

Robert Daniels, Production Manager of the MAC stated, Professor McGinnis is "a straight-up beast of a carpenter," he continued, "Their work has made it possible for us to have a huge set without shutting down the MAC for two months to accommodate the build--which could never happen."

The BSCTC Construction Technology Program prepares students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in building homes and businesses. Students study blueprint reading, site layout, foundation work, rough framing, roofing, finish work, cost estimating and material preparation for construction sites as well as practical experience in the carpentry shop.

BSCTC Interim President Telly Sellars remarked, "As Big Sandy in partnership with the Mountain Arts Center, we are committed to the thriving community, and we dedicate our very best to provide exemplary educational opportunities that promote the vision and talent of Appalachians."

A special thanks to Brian Phillips and the CDL Program (Hager Hill Campus) for transporting the stage from Mayo to the MAC.

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