Matanzas High School’s Future Builders of America (FBA) team achieved an impressive second-place finish at the annual Southeast Builders
Conference (SEBC) Design Build Competition, held on July 24, 2024, in Orlando. The SEBC Design Build Competition brings together high school FBA teams to showcase their skills in architectural design, construction, and project management. It challenges students to create innovative building designs and then bring them to life through hands-on construction, testing their teamwork, creativity, and technical expertise.
Matanzas High School’s FBA team, comprised of Danny Caronna, Emma Guldan, Gio Mesete, and Blaine Vogel, Danny Caronna, and Gio Mesete, along with the help of Ian Knuff and Joseph Richmond, demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication throughout the competition. They worked for multiple weeks, during their summer break, to be ready for the showcase. The team received donated supplies from Manning Building Supply, as well as sponsorship for their travel from the Flagler HBA.
Mr. Douglas, the carpentry teacher at Matanzas High School and the team’s advisor, said “This was our first year competing, and our students took on the challenge of participating at the SEBC without knowing what to expect. They worked incredibly hard over the summer, consistently showing up and demonstrating dedication to their peers and the project. It has been inspiring to witness them learning new skills while managing a safe and efficient job site. I could not be prouder of their dedication, hard work, and professionalism.”
The FBA program at Matanzas High School will continue to play a crucial role in fostering the next generation of workers entering the construction field. Through hands-on projects, competitions, and industry partnerships, students gain valuable experience that prepares them for careers in construction, engineering, and related fields. The school, community, and the Flagler Home Builders Association, who have worked closely with the students all year, local supporters are thrilled with the team’s success and look forward to their continued achievements in the future.
