RACINE, Ohio — A high-tech company in Athens is redefining the way houses and buildings are constructed—and inspiring Southern students along the way.
On Thursday, September 4, 2025, Stefano Alva, Director of Operations at Vitruvian, spoke to both 6th graders and high school students about the innovative work of 3-D printing houses in Chauncey, Ohio. This event was made possible through a partnership with Project RISE’s Amy Robinson, Ohio University’s Christopher Quolke, and Dr. Jesus Pagan.
Mr. Alva shared that industry trends suggest approximately 40 percent of construction workers will retire by 2035, creating a critical need to fill those positions with a skilled, tech-savvy workforce.
During the presentation, Mr. Alva explained Vitruvian’s use of industrial-scale 3-D printers—specifically the Scorpion, which utilizes specialized concrete manufactured by the company SIKA in Texas.
The Scorpion can construct home walls in just one week. Its advanced 3-D printing technology easily produces intricate designs, smooth curves, and custom features that would be highly complex—and time-consuming—using traditional building methods.
“With 3-D printing, the possibilities are virtually unlimited,” Alva said. “We can design homes that are stronger, more efficient, and more adaptable to the needs of each family and community.”
The other focus was the Mantis 3-D printer, which uses recycled and bio-derived materials to build indoor designs, including furniture.
The advantages of 3-D printed homes extend beyond aesthetics. They are durable, energy-efficient, and cost-effective—helping reduce long-term maintenance costs, lower utility bills, and promote sustainable housing solutions for the future.
Vitruvian has developed strong partnerships with Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers of Local 23 to provide on-the-job training. In addition, they offer a pre-apprenticeship program for high school students in grades 10–12, designed to introduce young people to the trades and recruit the next generation of skilled construction professionals.
“This is a unique opportunity for students to see where innovation meets craftsmanship,” Alva emphasized. “I encourage them to take advantage of programs like these, where they can learn hands-on skills while shaping the future of construction.”
Vitruvian also offers an apprenticeship program to upskill existing members, boost productivity, and address the growing labor shortage in the industry.
“This is such an amazing project happening in our own backyard. It was very rewarding to see the students exposed to such a high-tech concept and ask thoughtful questions about the process,” said Robinson. “I am thankful tomorrow’s workforce now knows there are high-paying—and truly exciting—career opportunities out there.”
Southern High School Principal Mr. Daniel Otto expressed his gratitude for the experience and the collaborative effort to educate students about promising careers in construction.
“Providing students with direct exposure to cutting-edge construction methods helps them envision their future in ways textbooks cannot,” Otto commented. “Such initiatives are an investment in both their personal growth and the development of our community.”
Construction on the first of three 3-D printed homes is already underway, with the printing phase expected to begin next week.
Southern Local School District extends its sincere thanks to Vitruvian, Project RISE, Ohio University, and all the dedicated partners who helped bring this valuable learning opportunity to the students.
