Milwaukee teens build boats from scratch at All Hands Boatworks

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- There was an unusual boat launch in Milwaukee Friday, July 22. 

A fleet of small rowboats built by local students hit the water for the first time.

"These are their boats. They've like named them and really are excited to get out on the water and test 'em out," said Patrick McBriarton of All Hands Boatworks.

Friday's launch was the climax of Boat Builders Camp at All Hands Boatworks. 

Twenty-five Milwaukee area high school students spent the week working with experts, learning how to use tools and work together in small groups toward a goal -- building a boat that actually floats. 

One student was excited to learn how to use a saber saw and he compared this experience to playing video games.

"If you're on like screens or anything, it's not good for your mental health," said Ivan Baker, boat building camper. "But building stuff with a community and going out and testing that thing that you built and if it works, you feel really proud."

The Boat Builders Camp is designed not just to build boats, but to help kids learn poise and self-confidence.