Drake State, NAHA, and Nexus Energy Center Complete Model Tiny Home Project

Drake State, North Alabama Homebuilding Academy, and Nexus Energy Center Complete Model Tiny Home Project

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – Drake State Community and Technical College, the North Alabama Homebuilding Academy (NAHA), and Nexus Energy Center have completed a model tiny home renovation project that provided workforce training for Drake State adult education students while creating a mobile resource for energy-efficiency education.

The project began with a collaboration between the Huntsville-based nonprofit Nexus Energy Center, which provided a $12,000 grant to Drake State to support the renovation of a donated model home. During the summer semester, Drake State Adult Education students working toward industry credentials refurbished the home as part of the college's Advanced Carpentry program hosted by NAHA.

The project gave students hands-on experience in construction while contributing to a finished product that will continue serving the community.

"One of Drake State's strengths is our ability to leverage every asset available to create meaningful opportunities for student success," said Dr. Doug Brazier, Dean of Workforce Development and Career Technical Education at Drake State Community and Technical College. "This tiny home was more than a donated structure. Through our partnership with the North Alabama Homebuilding Academy, it became a hands-on classroom where students developed technical skills, gained real-world experience, and contributed to a completed project they can be proud of."

The tiny home will now serve as a mobile demonstration unit showcasing energy-efficiency practices. The unit will be maintained by the North Alabama Homebuilding Academy and displayed at its facilities and community events throughout the region.

"This project was built on collaboration," said Dr. Tommy Davis, Executive Director of the North Alabama Homebuilding Academy. "Nexus Energy Center provided the funding, Drake State provided the training environment, and students completed the work. The result is a resource that supports both workforce development and community education."

The project also highlights the value of trust among partners working toward a common goal.
"The grant provided the foundation, but the success came from the commitment of each partner," said Ruchi Singhal, Founder and Executive Director of Nexus Energy Center. "Together, we created an opportunity for students to build skills while creating a resource that will help educate the community about energy efficiency."

The completed tiny home stands as a demonstration of how education, industry, and nonprofit organizations can work together to expand learning opportunities, strengthen workforce development, and create lasting community impact.
About Drake State Community and Technical College
Drake State Community & Technical College offers flexible, affordable technical and university-transfer degrees, industry certifications, adult and continuing education, and customized skills training to support and enhance the North Alabama community.
Drake State Communications: communications@drakestate.edu

About Northern Alabama Homebuilding Association
The North Alabama Homebuilding Academy (NAHA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit trade school in Huntsville, Alabama, that provides free, hands-on, short-term training for individuals seeking to enter the residential construction industry.
Northern Alabama Homebuilding Association: info@gobuildhsv.org

About Nexus Energy Center
Nexus Energy Center is a 501( c)(3) non-profit that builds smarter energy communities in Alabama through education, conservation, & renewable initiatives.
Nexus Energy Center: contactus@nexusenergycenter.org