High school students from around the region once again exceeded expectations with their innovating outdoor living projects at the fifth annual Eastman Credit Union Battle of the Build.
The event, which was put on by the Johnson City Area Home Builders Association and held for the first time on the campus of Northeast State Community College, provided an opportunity for dozens of area high school students to showcase their skills. In addition to the skilled trades displayed by the teams competing in the event, the culinary programs at Science Hill and West Ridge joined forces to prepare an outstanding dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients.
When it came time to hand out the hardware, the team from Carter County cleaned up. The judges loved the outdoor dining area the team constructed out of the tailgate of an old truck, complete with music, a beverage station and a fountain that serves as a centerpiece. Carter County was awarded first place and also received the East Tenn Rent-Alls Popular Vote Award as well as the Chairman’s Choice Award.
As impressive as Carter County’s project was, they finished just one point ahead of runner-up Tennessee High, which put its carpentry skills on display by building a wood grilling station and a unique set of chairs. The project was also selected for the Builder’s Choice Award.
Johnson County finished third with a custom-made firepit, complete with a pair of chairs and a corn hole game.
