DELHI, N.Y. – Brick by brick and nail by nail, students enrolled in SUNY Delhi's residential construction program are getting hands-on experience building homes. 

Freshman Lauren Sedlacek said despite the disproportionate ratio between women and men in her classrooms, she's determined to pursue a career in construction. 

“I don’t like to just be sitting down," Sedlacek said. "I like to be working with my hands and getting a little dirty."

The New York State Department of Labor is celebrating Women in Construction Week, revealing more than 11,000 women are employed as construction workers across the state. 

SUNY Delhi Building Trades Coordinator Richard Pearson is helping to teach future generations of contractors and construction managers what it takes to be successful. He said it's rewarding to watch students as they help to build homes from start to finish.

“We’re out in the elements," Pearson said. "We’re out here on cold days, we’re out here on rainy days, we’re here every day, just like a real job. So, they get a taste of reality weatherwise, and we have a certain expectation that I keep. And I hold the students to it."

Homeowners James and Laurie Aitken are partnering with Pearson and his students as they prepare to move into one of their dream homes. 

James told Spectrum News 1 he appreciates the Broncos, who are helping his family to save on their labor costs.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to be around here quite often when they’re working," James said. "They’ve come a long way... If we didn’t use students, we would be in the $400,000 range, and using the students, we’re in the $250-270,000 range... at least a $100,000 saving on the house, garage and stuff.”

If you or someone you know are interested in partnering with SUNY Delhi students for a remodeling or construction project, visit the SUNY Delhi website.