Spanning 63,000 square feet, Aspire Trade High School is the Charlotte region’s first public trade high school serving students in grades 9–12. This innovative learning laboratory is designed to prepare the next generation of skilled tradespeople through hands-on learning and real-world simulation for a variety of high-demand trade pathways.
- Client: Aspire Carolinas Foundation
- Location: Huntersville, NC
- Size: 63,000 SF
- Delivery Method: CMAR
Huntersville Educational Campus
The Aspire Carolinas Foundation, founded in 2017, helps establish independent schools and charter schools for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other learning differences, as well as those interested in pursuing careers in the trades. In 2018, the Foundation partnered with Boomerang Design to launch the Huntersville Educational Campus, a 25-acre site in Huntersville, NC, designed to support and center the diverse educational, emotional, and social needs of their students. The Educational Campus features the Halton School for students in grades 2-12 with ASD and other learning differences, and the Aspire Trade High School.
Aspire Trade High School Project
Aspire Trade High School is thoughtfully designed to provide comprehensive educational experience for over 400 students, featuring 24 modern classrooms, 10 specialized labs, four collaborative meeting rooms, and administrative and counseling suites. To best prepare students for the working world, the school features simulation-based classrooms for a variety of trades including auto collision, carpentry, computer science, culinary arts, digital media arts, electrical, HVAC, mechatronics, medical, plumbing, and welding.
Building Bright Futures Through Flexible Design
The design emphasizes a bright, open environment that incorporates flexible learning spaces and technology-driven classrooms, all of which align with contemporary educational demands. The flexibility and durability of each room will allow the school to grow alongside their enrollment needs and keep up with evolving industry standards.
The Role of Simulation-Based Education
One of the most effective ways to prepare students for successful careers after graduation is through hands-on, simulation-based learning. One of the major features of Aspire Trade High School is multipurpose dining room and fully equipped teaching kitchen. These facilities are designed to help students engage in practical culinary experiences and practice various scenarios they will encounter in the restaurant industry.
Innovative Design + Construction
In response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the project team implemented ICF construction for the building’s exterior. This alternative technique mitigates supply chain disruptions while enhancing energy efficiency, durability, and project timelines.
