By Kathy Lefler/Communications and Marketing Manager
Aidan Knolla, our new AmeriCorps Construction Crew Leader, is no stranger to the work of Habitat. That’s because his dad, Brian Knolla, is on staff as our Construction Coordinator, so Aidan has visited our build sites over the years and heard his dad talk about how rewarding he finds the work.
Recent High School graduate
Aidan graduated from Heights High School in 2021 and applied for the position soon after. “I had been looking for something to do when my dad brought it up,” he recalled. “I knew about the work because I had been to the work sites with my dad. It (applying) was not a hard decision because my dad loves his job.”
Aidan’s been with us for about a month now and he really likes the job. “It’s just like dad described it: It’s a wonderful job,” he said.

“This is a job that is worthwhile.”
Aidan
What’s the best part of the job?
“Meeting people,” Aidan said, “Especially the core volunteers (they volunteer on a regular basis). They are great. Part of that is the experience they bring to the job site. I like their sense of ‘let’s get it done and have fun.'”
Aidan is learning a lot and enjoys working with his dad, and Don Cupery and Dana Korkki, who also work on the construction staff.
“This is a job that is worthwhile,” Aidan said. “I’m doing something that helps people who need it.”
What is a crew leader?
The construction crew leader plays an integral part in building and repairing homes. They lead groups of skilled and unskilled volunteers and homeowner families in construction activities while maintaining a safe, efficient work environment. They serve for a year.
Aidan Knolla, our new AmeriCorps Construction Crew Leader.
Aidan Knolla, right, and his Dad, Brian Knolla on the build site.