GREAT FALLS, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte announced a significant boost to the Great Falls High School House Program with a $200,000 investment from Wells Fargo.
This program allows students to develop in-demand skills while contributing to local homeownership.
“Montanans believe in hard work and the dignity of every job,” said Gianforte. “The High School House Program equips students with skills to meet workforce needs and helps Montana families achieve homeownership.”
The event at Great Falls High featured Mike Rowe, an Emmy-winning TV host known for promoting skilled labor, alongside Wells Fargo officials. The donation will help procure supplies and secure land for future student-built homes.
“Wells Fargo is proud to partner with the High School House Program,” said Jason Rosenberg, Head of Public Affairs at Wells Fargo. “Investing in hands-on education opens doors for young people and builds stronger communities.”
Since 1997, the program has seen students from Great Falls High School and C. M. Russell High School build homes under skilled guidance. The current project is the 48th home built, sold to first-time low or moderate-income buyers.
Mike Rowe emphasized the program’s broader significance, saying, “The whole country is desperate to see the trades reinvigorated. Programs like this prove that young people rise to the challenge when given real skills and responsibility.”
Governor Gianforte also declared November 13, 2025, as High School House Day in Montana, aligning with the state’s 406 JOBS Initiative, which promotes diverse career pathways for Montanans.
