by P.J. Wirchansky
Appalachian State University’s construction management students are gearing up for a milestone moment as they return to Appalachia Service Project’s (ASP) 10th Anniversary Race to Build, held Sept. 16–19, 2026, during NASCAR weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway. After an impressive debut in 2025 where the Mountaineers secured 3rd place overall, the team is back with renewed energy, expanded training, and a deepened commitment to serving families across Central Appalachia. The team is advised by Rob Howard, Lecturer of Building Science, who has supported the students throughout their preparation.
Race to Build has grown into one of ASP’s signature events, uniting students, homeowners, volunteers, sponsors, and community partners around the mission of providing warm, safe, and dry homes. What began ten years ago as a creative way to spotlight housing insecurity during race weekend has evolved into a powerful demonstration of community-driven construction and servant leadership. This year’s competition features four universities selected from a competitive national pool: Appalachian State University, Auburn University, Iowa State University, and the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Durham School.
ASP President & CEO Melisa Winburn emphasized the significance of the anniversary year, noting that Race to Build has become “something extraordinary… about students discovering the power of service, communities coming together, and families receiving the life-changing gift of home and hope.”
App State’s 2026 team reflects both continuity and growth. Seven students from last year’s inaugural team are returning in leadership roles, bringing valuable experience from their first competition. Their preparation has expanded to include new equipment, enhanced training opportunities, and strengthened collaboration through the Student Builders Association, Habitat for Humanity chapter, and coursework focused on affordable housing. Their 2025 debut was marked by determination, teamwork, and a memorable moment of resilience—students believed they were trailing behind other teams, only to learn they were not. The news “pumped” them up, fueling a spirited push to the finish and earning praise from ASP staff who said App State “knocked it out of the park” for first‑time competitors.
Howard shared his enthusiasm for the team’s return, noting, “I am excited for our students to participate in Race to Build again this year. This competition combines hands-on construction experience with meaningful community impact to help us prepare future builders who understand the importance of serving their communities.”
To commemorate the tenth anniversary, ASP will oversee the construction of four homes during Race to Build weekend. One home will be built live at Bristol Motor Speedway as the centerpiece of the collegiate competition, while three additional homes will be constructed simultaneously on permanent sites across Northeast Tennessee. Progress on all homes will be shared with race fans throughout the weekend, highlighting the broader reach of ASP’s New Build Program. Each home will be provided mortgage‑free to families in need, offering long-term stability and dignity.
Teams will be evaluated on construction quality, safety, teamwork, fundraising, and overall performance. Scholarship awards will be presented to top-performing teams, but ASP emphasizes that the true measure of success comes later—when each completed home is dedicated to a local family. For App State students, Race to Build is more than a competition. It is a chance to apply classroom learning in a high-impact environment, grow as leaders, and contribute to addressing the region’s critical housing needs. Many students go on to serve with ASP as summer staff or fellows, continuing the cycle of service.
ASP invites the public to attend Race to Build during NASCAR weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway. Opportunities remain to volunteer, sponsor the event, provide in-kind donations, or support the families receiving these homes.
As App State returns for its second year, the university community celebrates the students’ dedication, craftsmanship, and commitment to service. Their participation not only strengthens ASP’s mission but also elevates awareness of the affordable housing crisis across Appalachia. The Mountaineers are ready to build and to make a difference.
About the Department of Sustainable Technology and the Built Environment
One of seven departments housed in the College of Fine and Applied Arts, the Department of Sustainable Technology and the Built Environment at Appalachian State University features an integrated array of programs spanning the fields of sustainable design and technology. Its mission is to foster a strong and vibrant culture of inquiry, discovery and innovation that integrates theory with application, problem seeking with problem-solving, local issues with global perspectives and technological progress with environmental stewardship. It offers bachelor’s degrees in sustainable technology and building science, and a master’s degree in technology. Learn more at https://stbe.appstate.edu.
About the College of Fine and Applied Arts
Appalachian State University’s College of Fine and Applied Arts is a dynamic and innovative group of seven academic departments, bringing together a variety of perspectives, experiences and real-world education to provide unique opportunities for student success. The college has more than 3,500 undergraduate and graduate majors. Its departments are Applied Design, Art, Communication, Military Science and Leadership, Sustainable Development, Sustainable Technology and the Built Environment, and Theatre and Dance. Learn more at https://cfaa.appstate.edu.
About Appalachian State University
As a premier public institution, Appalachian State University prepares students to lead purposeful lives. App State is one of 17 campuses in the University of North Carolina System, with a national reputation for innovative teaching and opening access to a high-quality, cost-effective education. The university enrolls more than 21,000 students, has a low student-to-faculty ratio and offers more than 150 undergraduate and 80 graduate majors at its Boone and Hickory campuses and through App State Online. Learn more at https://www.appstate.edu.
Race to Build 2026 thumb
Race to Build 2026 thumb