UBTech and The Other Side Village Partner to Build Tiny Homes for Homeless Individuals

Uintah Basin Technical College (UBTech) and The Other Side Village are proud to announce a partnership providing UBTech construction students with hands-on training, and an opportunity to give back in support of the statewide mission to address homelessness in Utah. Through this collaboration, students will gain real-world experience by constructing tiny homes for individuals in need.

The Other Side Village is a peer-led, democratic, therapeutic community offering affordable tiny home living to individuals transitioning out of homelessness. Currently in its first phase, the organization is building 60 tiny homes on Indiana Ave in Salt Lake City. The Other Side Village collaborates with construction companies and educational institutions, covering the costs of supplies while offering students valuable, hands-on training.

“We are excited to collaborate with UBTech and provide students an opportunity to apply their skills, having a lasting impact on the community,” said Camille Winnie, Vice President at The Other Side Village. “This partnership not only supports our mission but also helps train the next generation of skilled professionals.”

Through UBTech’s Construction Technology program, students receive hands-on training in various construction disciplines, including framing, blueprint reading, drywall, flooring, roofing, insulation, and more. Additionally, students enrolled in the Electrical Technician and Cabinetry programs will have the opportunity to contribute their expertise to the project. This program is open to both secondary and adult students, offering them valuable experience serving them throughout their careers.

UBTech is set to begin work on the first home soon, with plans to build two homes per year as part of the initiative. All supplies for the project are purchased locally in the Uintah Basin, ensuring the partnership supports local businesses and strengthens the regional economy.

“We are thrilled to offer this opportunity to our students in rural Utah,” said UBTech Vice President of Instruction, Michiel Bostick. “Not only will they gain invaluable hands-on experience in construction, but they will also have the chance to contribute to a meaningful cause. The skills they develop through this project will serve them for a lifetime.”

Prospective residents first enroll in a six-month minimum, tuition-free “prep school,” where they learn essential life and job skills to foster independence. Upon completing the program, they commit to the village community and move into their tiny homes, paying an affordable monthly rent of $450-$550.

“We are proud of our faculty and students for their desire to give back and bless the lives of others,” added UBTech President Aaron Weight, “It’s ‘The UBTech Way’.”

By combining education and service, UBTech students will leave the program with not only industry-ready skills but also knowing their work has helped build a brighter future for individuals in need.

Camille Winnie, Vice President of The Other Side Village, toured UBTech’s construction facilities as part of a new partnership aimed at providing students with hands-on experience while supporting efforts to address homelessness in Utah. Pictured left to right; UBTech Director of Trades, Brant Monsen; UBTech Vice President of Instruction, Michiel Bostick; UBTech Vice President of Marketing and Communications, Stephanie Carter; The Other Side Village Vice President Camille Winnie; UBTech Chief Development Officer, Heather Lowry; UBTech Construction Instructor, Brandon Uresk.