February 10, 2022 | Greater Lansing area high school students are getting hands-on experience with Architecture, Construction and Engineering industries this winter as the ACE Mentor Program Capital Region Chapter celebrates its inaugural season.
Founded in 1994, the ACE Mentor Program of America (ACE) is a free, award-winning, afterschool program designed to attract high school students to careers in architecture, construction, engineering and skilled trades.
“ACE Mentor Programs already exist in Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Battle Creek, Pontiac and Detroit area schools,” notes Board Member Chair Traci Brower of Clark Construction Company. “We are excited to launch the Capital Region Chapter!”
Participants in the inaugural season include high school students from Waverly Community School District and Holt Public Schools. At weekly meetings, student teams work directly with professionals from leading area firms who volunteer their time to mentor teams as they design hypothetical projects, tour local construction sites and visit architectural, engineering and construction offices.
“This year, we are thrilled to partner with Impression 5 Science Center for our mock project,” notes Board Member Treasurer Adam Al-Ansari of Granger Construction Company. “Students also recently had the opportunity to tour Granger Construction’s McLaren Greater Lansing Medical Services Building and Cancer Center jobsite.”
For students, it’s a unique chance to discover and develop new skills, solidify future goals and get on track to exciting and rewarding careers. In addition, many students form positive relationships with industry professionals who can provide important references for obtaining college admissions, scholarships, internships and full-time employment.
“Our goal now is to raise awareness among Lansing area schools and organizations,” notes Outreach Committee Co-Chair Nicki Osgood-Badgero of Mayotte Group Architects. “There are many ways to support the program, from volunteering to corporate sponsorships, and every bit helps. We would like to especially thank Bergmann Associates, Clark Construction Company, Clark Trombley Randers, Elements Studio, Granger Construction Company, Lansing Community College, Mayotte Group Architects and Minshall Consulting for their initial contributions and volunteer support.”
For more information on this program, email capitalregionmi@acementor.org or visit www.acementor.org.
