This project-based learning experience aims to harness students' trade skills to address real-world community problems in Idaho Falls, integrating scientific analysis with economic and governmental considerations. Through a structured progression of mastery, students will explore environmental impacts, develop innovative solutions, and present their proposals to community leaders. The experience is designed to foster critical thinking, self-directed learning, and a sense of belonging, culminating in a reflective showcase of personal and academic growth.

Students will develop the ability to identify and analyze community problems through the lens of their trade skills, incorporating scientific, economic, and governmental perspectives. They will learn to design and evaluate solutions, considering environmental impacts and constraints such as cost, safety, and reliability. Through reflective practices and peer collaboration, students will enhance their critical thinking, problem-solving, and self-directed learning skills. They will gain experience in presenting their solutions to community leaders, integrating feedback to refine their proposals. Ultimately, students will cultivate a sense of belonging and identity within their community by actively contributing to real-world problem-solving.

Students will develop a comprehensive project proposal that includes a detailed pitch to their trade teachers, supported by a presentation, model, blueprint, or portfolio. Throughout the project, students will create reflective journals documenting their learning journey and a peer-reviewed assessment of their project proposals. The final product will be showcased in a 'Pitch Fest' and 'Trade Show and Tell,' where students present their solutions to community leaders and demonstrate their trade skills in practical applications.

Kick off the project with a 'Community Problem Scavenger Hunt' where students, in small groups, explore key locations in Idaho Falls to identify existing community issues. Each group will document their observations and gather initial ideas on potential solutions, considering their trade skills and scientific perspectives. This hands-on activity will not only engage students but also provide a foundation for their project proposals and encourage collaboration from the outset.

Host a 'Pitch Fest' where students present their project proposals to a panel of community leaders, including City Council members, simulating real-world pitching scenarios. Arrange a 'Trade Show and Tell' where students demonstrate their trade skills through live presentations or demonstrations, showcasing the practical applications and scientific principles of their solutions. Conduct a 'Solution Symposium' featuring conference-style presentations and breakout sessions, allowing students to engage in in-depth discussions on the scientific, economic, and governmental aspects of their solutions with community members.