Each One, Teach One: Pre-Appretenceship x Designery

July 29, 2026—Designery students learned construction basics from YouthBuild Boston's carpentry pre-apprentices and vocational staff as part of our Each One, Teach One program (E1T1). This program invites pre-apprentices to pass the carpentry techniques and life skills they have learned to younger students. As this cohort approaches graduation, they are considering the next steps in their careers. This workshop allowed them to practice mentorship and leadership.

Designery students saw firsthand what the carpentry training environment looks and feels like. It gave them insight into the building process which they can use in their designs.

Pre-Apprentice Jamal and Designery students hard at work.

After an overview of personal protective equipment (PPE) and shop safety, Designery students watched a demonstration then built and decorated birdhouses. YBB's team of lead designers encouraged their students to customize their birdhouses with personal touches like perches and painted roofs.

Most of the Designery curriculum is centered around architectural planning and design. This workshop invited students to practice a different discipline. Jenny Wan, one of the pre-apprentices leading the workshop, is a graduate of the Designery program. “I think it's a wonderful opportunity for them to be exposed to this," Jenny said, “because drawing is amazing, but it's also amazing to learn the practice of what you're drawing."

Pre-Apprentice Jenny helps Designery students construct their birdhouses.

At the end of the workshop, vocational staff invited Designery students and teachers to sign a hard hat to commemorate the event.

Lead Designers sign the commemorative hard hat after the workshop.