The MASTER’S Trades uses the trades to teach Biblical character to the next generation of the Master’s craftsmen. “For one is your master, even Christ.” Schwanke Homes is the platform for this third-party educational program targeting Christian schooled and homeschooled teenagers.

Company Overview:

Description

            The Master’s Trades (TMT) was started in 2021 to fill the void in Christian schools for trades education. The focus of Christian schools has primarily been college preparatory. With the recent adoption of School Choice Vouchers in many states, the demographics in the Christian schools is changing and will continue to add more students who may not be college-bound! TMT is a third-party vocational program for Christian schools and homeschool families in Northwest Indiana to introduce trades-minded students to serving others and their Creator through hard work and focused training.

Mission Statement

The Master’s Trades uses the trades to teach Biblical character to the next generation of the Master’s Craftsmen.

Vision

The Master’s Trades teaches Christian high school students to be committed to exalting the name of the Master Craftsman and evangelizing the lost through work that is “Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord,” reminding them that “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might.”

Targeted Demographics

• Christian high school students, who are either attending a Christian school or are homeschooled.
• Young men: TMT’s current focus is developing a trade program for young men in 10^th to 12^th grade.

Past Accomplishments: TO GOD BE THE GLORY!!

• Built and sold a spec house in Valparaiso, Indiana (sold 2023)
• Built and sold another spec house in Valparaiso, Indiana (sold 2024)

Current and Future Plans

Spec homes and remodeling

            TMT will continue to build spec homes while also contracting remodeling jobs with homeowners to provide cash flow. Spec homes are an excellent learning platform for the students because they can learn without the time pressure and oversight of homeowners.

• Current spec house under construction in Chesterton, Indiana
• Current pre-sold house under construction in Wanatah, Indiana
• Current major addition to a house in Valparaiso, Indiana
• Planning another spec home in Westville, Indiana
• Looking and praying for a large parcel of land in Porter or LaPorte County to subdivide for future spec homes in a consistent location

Curriculum and partnership with local Christian schools and Homeschool associations

            TMT is actively creating a platform for teaching the construction trades to local Christian and homeschool young men. We are currently in year two of a six year plan. At the end of this six year plan, we hope to enroll the first students.