The program has continued to grow and thrive over the past 17 years and the hard work of faculty, staff and students can be seen by the more than 50 new homes that have been built in the area surrounding campus. In recent years it has become an important mission of RCDC to begin to build more "green" and efficient homes. Last year the program participated in an Energy Star home inspection from Applied Science Energy Ratings (ASERusa). During the audit students were shown areas that needed improvement, then they went back and made improvements in insulation and caulking. After the final inspection done in May, the home was given an Energy Star Home rating. The program has also started using advanced framing techniques that involve two-foot framing centers, which minimizes material usage and waste. On one of the homes being built this semester, RCDC used a product called Superior walls system which are precast concrete walls made with steel rebar, making them stronger than traditional foundations. The walls, which come pre-insulated and include features like built-in accesses for wiring and small plumbing, stud facing for easy drywall installation and custom openings for windows and doors, are more energy efficient, sustainable and environmentally friendly. RCDC has also started using the ZIP System roof sheathing and wall sheathing which are structural panels with built-in protective overlays that eliminate the need for housewrap or felt forever. Siding and roof covering can be installed directly on top of the panels. "We continue to look for new ways to build homes more efficiently," said Jeff Bosick, carpentry instructor. "A lot of these new techniques save us money while building and definitely save the homeowner money in the long run." Studies have shown that homeowners with more energy efficient homes enjoy energy bills that are approximately 30% less than average homes. "Finding ways to build homes using more energy efficient building techniques is the right thing to do," said John Wood, vice president for student success. "Beyond that though it’s also a great learning tool for our students who will be able to go out into the work force with this knowledge and potentially teach their employer and colleagues these new building techniques."
Recognizing a need for housing in the community it serves, the College established the Ranken Community Development Corporation (RCDC) backed by the development expertise of SLAYCO, in April 1994. The program combines the technical skills of its students and faculty with the need for affordable housing, enhancing North St. Louis city’s neighborhoods.