Like many of her peers navigating the challenges of online learning during the pandemic, Meya found herself yearning for a more hands-on experience. Always creative and artistic, she sought solace in crafting miniature houses out of popsicle sticks, inspired by tutorials she discovered on YouTube.
It wasn’t long before Meya’s curiosity led her to explore the construction world.
In 11th grade, she enrolled in an introductory trades class at school, where she learned through hands-on projects. Her interest was sparked. As she put it, “Before the class, I didn’t know how to use a measuring tape. Learning the basics was very interesting.”
Next, Meya enrolled in the Finishing Trades Academy, where high school students spend 2.5 hours during the school day gaining hands-on experience at the Finishing Trades Institute and earning high school credit. There, Meya had the opportunity to meet fellow students and learn from their diverse perspectives. “Making connections with other students was really fun. Everyone is at different levels,” said Meya. “I enjoy getting to see how other people think.”
Eager to expand her skills, Meya joined Lake Street Works in July 2023. This afterschool program offers juniors and seniors a platform to develop real-world skills in various trades, including carpentry, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, drywalling, and painting. Meya quickly made a lasting impression on everyone she met. Her coach, Sam Ebute, describes her as “a driven and organized student who develops inspirational relationships with her peers.”
For Meya, the appeal of the construction industry lies in its ability to blend creativity with practicality. Drawing inspiration from her love of drawing and the aesthetics of buildings, she finds fulfillment in seeing projects come to life from conception to completion. “There are so many options in the trades. It’s so satisfying to see the progression of a project,” she says.
Meya’s first building project.
After graduating from Brooklyn Center High School, Meya will embark on the next chapter in her journey and will spend the summer as a full-time carpentry apprentice for Gardner Builders.
As she explores working in construction, Meya is committed to sharing her knowledge and inspiring future apprentices. Just as she was taught to be a role model for her younger siblings, Meya hopes to pass on her skills and experiences to the next generation of construction professionals. Meya says “Five years from now, I would like to be a journeyworker teaching other people how to do the work.”
Meya Xiong is a true testament to the transformative power of following your passion and embracing new opportunities. The future of construction is bright with talents like hers leading the way.