In Knoxville, the casually respectful moniker, ‘Dr. D’ has become a familiar handle. Known for his expertise and investment of time, talent, and energy in Knoxville Schools' building trades program, Todd Derham is more than just a teacher; he’s a mentor, a craftsman, and a bridge-builder—both literally and figuratively. For the students who step into his world, he becomes a guide toward skills they’ll carry for life.

At first glance, one might think Todd’s program is just about carpentry or construction. But a closer look reveals something far more profound. It’s about instilling work ethic, problem-solving skills, and a drive to succeed. “My goal is to teach not only the skills but also work ethic and problem-solving. These are things they can use anywhere,” Todd says, nodding toward a group of students measuring roof sheathing on their latest shed project.

Todd’s students are his “clientele,” as he fondly calls them, and for them, this program is a stepping stone to something bigger. Through the Project Lead The Way (PLTW) curriculum, Knoxville students gain hands-on experience in engineering principles, design, and construction—skills that not only prepare them for the workforce but also give them an edge if they choose to pursue higher education. “The engineering programs out there want kids like this—students with both common sense and hands-on experience,” Todd explains, emphasizing that his curriculum makes them versatile, adaptable, and grounded.

In Todd’s class, students don’t just learn how to swing a hammer or operate power tools; they learn how to manage projects, solve unexpected problems, and work as a team. Knoxville Schools invested in this program to give students something practical and impactful, a move that’s paying dividends not only in student success but in community pride. And Todd’s connection to the community runs deep. Born and raised just a block away from the Middle School, he left Knoxville years ago to explore life and gain experience in Florida and Georgia, eventually finding his way back to the place he calls home. And Knoxville couldn’t be more fortunate to have him.

The program has built 15 sheds across the community, each one a testament to Knoxville’s commitment to hands-on education. The projects aren’t just practice; they’re real. Community members contract with the school, covering materials and a modest 10% margin. The result? Students gain real-world experience, and the community gains high-quality, student-crafted structures at affordable rates.

The relationships Todd has built with local businesses are a boon for students, too. Todd regularly receives calls from business owners looking to hire Knoxville students or even donate materials. “The businesses in the area trust me, and I trust them,” Todd says. When a local business needs a few good hands, Todd is the first person they call. And when students need a reference, Todd’s endorsement is more than just a recommendation—it’s a seal of quality that local employers respect.

Todd credits the success of the program to the investment that Knoxville Schools and the community have made in its young people. By providing resources and supporting Todd’s efforts, the district has created a pipeline where students can seamlessly transition from the classroom to the job site—or wherever else their ambitions might take them. For Todd, this isn’t just a job; it’s a calling. “My place is with these students, giving them something tangible they can carry into their futures.”

As Todd’s tool-belt clad students wrap up another project, there’s a sense of accomplishment in the air. It’s not just the satisfaction of building something with their hands but the confidence that comes from knowing they’re part of something bigger—a cornerstone of community pride. And every shed, every project, every student who goes on to make a name for themselves—each one is a testament to the strength of Knoxville Schools and this community that supports them.

This program is clear evidence that the community’s resources are being put to good use, with students benefiting from practical experience that prepares them for a range of careers. It’s a story of investment—investment in skills, in character, and in the future of Knoxville’s youth. Dr. D’s work might look like mere square footage and carpentry tools, but the real stuff? That’s in the outcomes; the lives of students, empowered by skills, strengthened by community, and ready for whatever lies ahead.