Bay Law and The Gibson McGath Foundation's Shop Class Launch Initiative to Empower Students, Address Southern Nevada's Housing Crisis, and Support Veterans

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Benefitting high school students from Lake Mead Christian Academy and the skilled labor shortage within the construction industry

LAS VEGAS, Feb. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Southern Nevada faces a dual challenge: a critical shortage of skilled tradespeople and an escalating housing crisis. In response, Bay Law Injury Attorneys and The Gibson McGath Foundation have joined forces to create the Bay Law Shop Class Program, a comprehensive initiative that provides high school seniors with hands-on education in skilled trades while building affordable housing for veterans in need.

Through the Bay Law Shop Class Program, high school students from Lake Mead Christian Academy gain real-world experience in construction, carpentry, welding, and electrical work. Students build a fully functional Tiny House during the school year, learning industry-relevant skills that prepare them to immediately enter the workforce or pursue higher education in fields such as engineering, architecture, and construction management.

“Providing students with practical, career-focused education is at the heart of this program,” said Deniz Bayramoglu, attorney and founder of Bay Law Injury Attorneys. “Whether these students decide to pursue skilled trades or go on to college, they leave this program equipped with tools to succeed and contribute meaningfully to their communities.”

The first Tiny House, currently under construction at JAG Development, will be on display at the upcoming press conference. These houses serve a dual purpose: empowering students through education and addressing Southern Nevada’s affordable housing crisis by providing homes to deserving veterans. The completed houses will be donated annually during Henderson’s Veterans Day celebration, offering veterans a stable place to call home.

Balancing Education, Housing, and Community Impact
The Bay Law Shop Class Program goes beyond traditional classroom learning by connecting students with industry professionals who mentor and guide them through hands-on training. In addition to acquiring technical skills, students learn teamwork, problem-solving, and project management—critical competencies for careers in construction or further education in STEM fields.

At the same time, this initiative addresses the growing housing crisis in Southern Nevada, where rising interest rates and home prices have made affordable housing out of reach for many families and veterans. The program’s long-term vision includes working with companies in Southern Nevada and The Gibson McGath Foundation to develop a tiny home community for veterans, providing sustainable housing solutions for those who have served the nation.

“This program builds futures on multiple levels,” said Jeff Gibson, Co-Founder of The Gibson McGath Foundation and CEO of JAG Development. “We’re equipping students with life-changing skills while directly addressing the critical housing needs of veterans, giving them the stability and dignity they deserve.”

Press Conference Details:
The initiative will be unveiled at a press conference:

When: Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 10:00 AM
Where: JAG Development, 1110 E. Lake Mead Blvd., Henderson, NV 89015

The event will feature the first Tiny House built by Shop Class students and remarks from community leaders, educators, and industry professionals:

Deniz Bayramoglu, Attorney and Founder of Bay Law Injury Attorneys
Jeff Gibson, Co-Founder of The Gibson McGath Foundation and CEO of JAG Development
Frank Farina, Director of Community Engagement Events & Philanthrope of Helix Electric
Sue Blakeley, Founder and Administrator of Lake Mead Christian Academy
Luke Ritchie, Senior at Lake Mead Christian Academy
Eddie Dichter, Director of Community Development for the City of Henderson

Press Opportunities:

Interviews with students, speakers, and veterans will be available before and after the event.
B-Roll and photography of the event and Tiny House will be provided upon request.

About Bay Law Injury Attorneys
Bay Law Injury Attorneys is a trusted legal firm dedicated to protecting the rights of individuals and guides families affected by personal injury. With a strong commitment to community engagement, Bay Law actively supports initiatives that create opportunities for education, housing, and veterans. To learn more, visit www.BayLawinjury.com.

About The Gibson McGath Foundation
The Gibson McGath Foundation’s Shop Class empowers Southern Nevada high school students with hands-on training in skilled trades. Seniors build a fully functional tiny home, supporting affordable housing locally and nationwide. Industry mentors and corporate sponsors fuel this initiative, shaping future trade professionals. The Gibson McGath Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and all donations are tax-deductible. thegibsonmcgathfoundation.org/Shop Class.

Contacts:
Virginia Martino
702-591-9183
v.martino@brandltd.com