“The true reward of my work is witnessing students translate these skills and their own creativity into tangible furniture or structures. My classes not only give students skills, but also hope.“
Chase Haecker teaches carpentry at Earl Warren High School in San Antonio, Texas. His foundation in craftsmanship began in childhood as an apprentice to his grandfather, a farmer and carpenter, building barns, furniture, and homes. Haecker went on to earn a degree in Architectural Interior Design from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Inspired by an advocate on the San Antonio Accessibility Review Board, he spent eight years with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation enforcing Americans with Disabilities Act compliance. He later managed home construction with KB Homes for eight years before bringing his industry expertise into education. A three-time CTE Department Teacher of the Year, Haecker is dedicated to building an inclusive, engaging shop environment that empowers every learner.
Operating his classroom like an active job site, Haecker utilizes “power zone” instruction to work shoulder-to-shoulder with students on residential and commercial mockups. His curriculum integrates a weekly professionalism grading system modeled after a real-world paycheck to instill accountability and industry work ethic. Students gain rigorous training on professional hand and power tools, earning vital credentials including OSHA 10-Hour, HBI-PACT Carpentry, NIOSH, and HILTI Powder-Actuated Nail Gun certifications. Through commercial framing partnerships and residential builds, Haecker equips students with tangible trade competencies, problem-solving skills, and direct pathways to high-demand careers.
Notes of Excellence
- Business & Industry Alignment: Habitat for Humanity provides blueprints and materials for students to build complete wall packages in the shop, while a direct partnership with Marek Brothers offers commercial drywall, metal framing training, and full-time hiring pipelines.
- Key Program Impact: Maintains a 95% program graduation rate, with eight students securing paid Habitat for Humanity internships and six graduates transitioning directly into full-time employment with Marek Brothers.
- Community Connection: Students annually construct 10×12-foot storage sheds for the Alamo Housing Authority and build 20 bunk beds for Sleep in Heavenly Peace to provide beds for local children in need.