John Kozal, an engineer with Universal Forest Products, Inc. (UFPI) since 1994, has been mentoring high school students doing home design and construction since 2009, first at Union High in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and now at Central High. Seven students in particular received his undivided attention, according to schoolnewsnetwork.org, and one even dedicated a hardcover book to Kozal, saying, “John Kozal is everything I had hoped a mentor would be. He is an experienced and trusted advisor and a good example of what a professional in the design and construction industries is and does. He is dedicated to us students, to his work, to his family and community. He tries to help us better ourselves, and he cares about all of our futures.”
The students obtain hands-on experience building a home, even working with Habitat for Humanity on homes. The Academy of Design and Construction program is through the Grand Rapids Public School system. Known for meticulous attention to detail and thoroughness, when first asked if he would mentor students, he replied, “Yes. You need to be a beacon at the top of the hill. Who lights a candle and puts it under a bushel basket?” As MHProNews knows, UFPI is a supplier of components to the manufactured housing industry.
