Sandersville Tech Hancock Center
Hosts Home Repair Workshop

The Home Repair Hands-On Workshop sponsored by ACE Hardware and the Construction Trades Department on Saturday, July 28 th was a success according to Billy Farley, an Eatonton resident and student in the Construction Trades program. Billy stated that he is no longer afraid to tackle leaky faucets around his home and he now knows how to repair damaged dry wall.

Tom Roberts, Owner/Manager of Ace Hardware and a member of the Construction Trades Advisory Committee, did an outstanding job demonstrating faucet, supply line, sink basket, and P-trap installations and yes, what we all need help with the most – changing leaky faucet washers.

STC Construction Trades Instructor David Earl (left) with Workshop sponsor Tom Roberts, Owner of Ace Hardware in Sparta, show how to install a p-trap to a sink or if you were cleaning a clog out of the drain

After demonstrating how easy it was to install a faucet or shower valve, many participants said they were told by their plumbers, who of course make $45 an hour and up, they needed a whole new fixture. However, after Saturday’s workshop, they learned that a twenty cent washer would have solved the problem.

During the dry wall repair segment taught by David Earl, the Construction Trades Instructor at the STC Hancock County Center; participants got to see firsthand, how to install and repair drywall. This segment covered drywall installation, outside and inside corner finishing, taping, bedding, skim coating, sanding, priming and painting. Participants were amazed at how easy it was to fix those nicks, dents and holes that our children sometimes cause.

Belinda Richmond and Bernice Jones demonstrated their dry wall skills when they were asked to take a hammer and knock a hole through the drywall to see how easy it was to fix. Mike Surgbally, Maintenance Supervisor at a local Washington County apartment complex, indicated that the techniques learned would be very helpful on his job.

Attendee Bill Farley said, “The knowledge that I gained from this workshop gave me the ability to make drywall and plumbing repairs at a professional level and avoid upsetting my customers.”

Tom Roberts state, “Until you get your hands dirty and really start with the hands-on learning, skilled, plumbers, electricians and contractors will continue to be in demand. That’s where Sandersville Tech plays a vital role.”

Build your own future with a career in the construction field at STC. It’s Hi-Tech and HANDS ON! For enrollment information, call the Hancock Center at (706) 444-1253.

Workshop attendees, instructors and sponsor Tom Roberts pose after the workshop. Pictured from left: Billy Farley, Elaine Jones, Christopher Epps, Joyce Robinson, Bernice Jones, William Daniel, Paulette Kelly-Robbins, Mike Surgbally, David Earl, Paula McGhee, Robin Reynolds, Tom Roberts.  Not Shown:  Belinda Richmond.

(2007, Fall Quarter Issue). The Fall Line Connector, p 12.