College - Author 1
College of Architecture and Environmental Design
Department - Author 1
Construction Management Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Construction Management
Date
6-2026
Primary Advisor/Subject Matter Expert (SME)
Shantanu Kumar, College of Architecture and Environmental Design, Construction Management Department
Abstract/Summary
The Brooding Box Project, completed by a California Polytechnic State University Construction Management student, aimed to provide additional chicken housing and secure storage for City Farm SLO, a local nonprofit farm located in San Luis Obispo. Led by Travis Black under the guidance of Shane Lovell, one of the farm’s caretakers, the project combined basic, hands-on construction skills with community service. Using the client’s initial design concept and purchasing the required materials independently, the project focused on durability, functionality, and cost-efficiency. Since the project was self-funded, careful budgeting and material selection were essential to ensure structural integrity while meeting the farm’s operational needs. This hands-on approach reinforced fundamental building principles, including accurate measurement, efficient use of materials, and problem-solving. The Brooding Box Project strengthened community partnerships and demonstrated Cal Poly’s “Learn by Doing” motto by providing the student with hands-on experience in design, estimating, and project planning. Through the application of classroom lessons to a real-world project, the student developed basic construction skills that are essential to the construction management coursework.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/cmsp/985
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