Tiny houses, those between 80 and 400 square feet in size, are growing in popularity world-wide. Whether on solid foundations or on wheels, more people are choosing these dwellings for their affordability and ecological friendliness.

Students in NPC’s Integrated Basic Education Skills Training and Construction classes in Holbrook and Whiteriver have been learning how to frame tiny houses. The program helps students study for their GED by giving them a real-world opportunity to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom. They are also earning national certifications in various construction skills and college credits toward an NPC degree. Tiny homes use the same framing principles as a full size structure, notes Ken Wilk, construction program chair and instructor. So far, NPC students have only framed and applied the exterior and roof sheathing to the tiny homes, with the eventual owners adding the electrical, plumbing and interior finishes.  www.npc.edu/construction