Meet Cameron! He is entering his senior year of high school with a clear vision for his future: a career in construction. This summer, he spent his time on Habitat Wake’s construction site through our Summer of Service program.
“I found the program through a teacher at my school,” Cameron says. “She knew I wanted to work in the construction field after high school, and she really wanted to make sure I got an internship.”
Habitat Wake’s Summer of Service is a unique volunteer opportunity for individuals ages 16 to 19. Participants work hands-on at one of our construction sites while also gaining exposure to non-profit operations at large.
“It’s a chance for young people to jump into construction and learn a ton in a short time,” explains Joel, one of Habitat Wake’s construction superintendents. “They really get to see what a job site is like.”
For Cameron, the program delivered exactly what he was looking for.
“When I came into this summer, I knew it was going to be a great opportunity to learn about how it’s actually like working in construction,” he shares. “It really was preparation for life in this industry. I’ve been on site three days each week and have gotten to do a little bit of everything. I found out that I really like siding. I’ve learned how to do porch packing, channeling—all sorts of stuff.”
Our staff quickly recognized Cameron’s enthusiasm and ability.
“Cameron came in with a lot of knowledge already,” Joel says. “He already had his OSHA 10 certification and two years of construction education from school. So he came to us really ready to go, and it’s been great to see someone so eager on site. He’s done a great job.”
In addition to developing construction skills, Summer of Service participants experience something unique to Habitat: working alongside future homebuyers and learning about affordable housing.
“Anyone working on a Habitat construction site will also walk away with an understanding of why Habitat exists,” Joel explains. “They see the need for local, affordable housing, which is an important perspective in the building industry.”
As Cameron heads into his final year of high school, he’s still waiting to see how his other passion, competitive wrestling, may impact his options for life after graduation. But for the time being, he plans to attend Wake Tech for construction management.
“Growing up, I always had construction on my mind,” Cameron said. “I always liked building stuff, you know Legos when I was a kid, and I can’t sit still for too long. So it seems like a good fit for me. I’ve really appreciated this summer’s experience. I’ve learned enough to know that I want to continue with construction in the future.”
Meeting Cameron offers a glimpse into the next generation of Wake County’s building industry. We’re grateful to have been a part of his journey this summer, and we wish the very best to the entire 2025 Summer of Service cohort as they take their next steps.
You don't have to wait until next summer to volunteer! Individuals 16 and up are welcome to join us on the construction site: https://www.habitatwake.org/volunteer
To learn more about the Summer of Service program, or to keep an eye out for the 2026 application, visit: habitatwake.org/summerofservice.