ACE Mentor Program of America

The ACE Mentor Program of America is a nonprofit organization focused on engaging and educating high school students about careers in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC). The program aims to inspire students to pursue careers in these fields by providing hands-on experiences, mentorship, and ongoing support.

History and Structure

Founded to address the need for talented professionals in the AEC industry, ACE has grown into a national program with over 70 affiliates across the United States. Each affiliate operates locally, offering mentorship programs that immerse students in real-world projects and industry practices. The program is driven by more than 5,000 volunteer mentors from the construction industry, who work closely with students to guide them through mock design projects and provide insight into various roles within the industry.

Program Overview

The ACE Mentor Program is designed for high school students interested in AEC fields. Participants are organized into teams of 15 to 25 students and are led by industry professionals. These teams meet regularly, often at professional offices or job sites, to work on projects that simulate real-world design challenges. The program culminates in a final presentation where teams showcase their designs to peers and industry leaders.

In addition to the hands-on learning experience, ACE offers resources such as scholarships, internships, and career guidance. The program has a significant impact on students' educational and career aspirations, with over 90% of ACE alumni going on to pursue higher education or skilled trades training in fields related to AEC. A notable outcome is that more than 70% of ACE seniors annually enter college or skilled trades programs with an industry-related focus.

Alumni Support

For students who have completed the ACE program, the organization offers continued support through its Transformative Partner Program (ACE-TPP). This program provides mentorship and resources to alumni who are pursuing post-secondary education in AEC fields. The goal is to support these students throughout their studies and help them secure internships and full-time employment in the industry upon graduation.

Impact and Outcomes

The ACE Mentor Program has a substantial impact on both students and the AEC industry. Annually, over 12,000 students participate in the program, and over $4.5 million in scholarships is awarded to assist alumni in pursuing AEC-related careers. The program has also contributed to diversifying the AEC workforce by engaging a diverse group of students, with more than 70% identifying as people of color and about 40% as young women.