Hancock Lumber Company Inc.
04/12/2025 | News release | Distributed by Public on 04/12/2025 11:53
Tiny Homes of Maine Welcomes Northern Maine Community College Instructor and Students for Tour
Our team at Tiny Homes of Maine welcomed instructor Matthew Cole and his building construction students from Northern Maine Community College (NMCC) to Tiny Homes of Maine for a behind-the-scenes tour of the Dyer Brook manufacturing facility.
During the visit, General Manager, Corinne Watson, introduced the students on how Tiny Homes of Maine uses LEAN manufacturing principles to streamline production. LEAN is all about maximizing value while minimizing waste-whether that's time, materials, or labor. In other words, every step in the process is intentional, aiming to reduce clutter, cut down on delays, and continuously improve how the team works. LEAN manufacturing principles helps the team build and deliver homes that are beautiful, efficient, and built to last.
A big part of Tiny Home's LEAN system-the Kanban two-bin inventory system-really caught the attention of the NMCC students. With this method two bins are used for each stocked item. When the first bin is emptied, it acts as a signal-it's time to reorder. This prevents overstocking, reduces waste, and ensures the building team always has what it needs on-hand to keep projects moving. It's a simple but powerful tool that supports smooth production flow and avoids delays.
Design and Production Manager, Thomas Small, led the students through the shop, emphasizing the critical role of the design process to successfully and efficiently build Tiny Homes. He explained how thoughtful planning shapes every aspect of construction. From framing techniques that ensure strength and durability to insulation methods that maintain comfort year-round, these intentional decisions help keep homes warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Tom also discussed the importance of ventilation systems, designed to optimize fresh air flow while maintaining energy efficiency. He shared how the design process integrates sustainable solutions, such as solar-ready features and energy-efficient appliances. These intentional design choices make our made-in-Maine Tiny Homes not only functional but also comfortable, energy-efficient, and perfect for year-round living.
Heidi Bartley, a second-career business major from the University of Maine in Orono and current NMCC student, shared her thoughts on the visit:
"One of the best parts of the tour was seeing the Kanban inventory system, and seeing the organization of the entire shop for efficiency. It was also amazing to see how compact yet large living in a Tiny Home can be."
A homeowner and DIY enthusiast, Heidi said she loves the growing job opportunities and "really cool things being done in this part of the state". She's drawn to the idea of downsizing and believes a smaller footprint can offer more freedom and flexibility.
The timing of the visit aligned perfectly with a project the NMCC students are already working on-building their own Tiny Home. NMCC's tiny home will be auctioned off later this year. Seeing the process firsthand gave students a deeper understanding of how thoughtful design and quality construction come together in the tiny home industry.
It's always so exciting and rewarding to connect with the next generation of builders, designers, and innovators-and to share the possibilities that come with living tiny. Thanks again to NMCC for visiting! Learn more online about Tiny Homes of Maine process and models available for sale.