Who are ACE mentors?

In our experience, ACE mentors tend to be members of a local community in which an ACE affiliate is located. Clearly passionate about they do, they often make significant contributions to their communities as role models, trusted friends and career advisors.

What makes a great ACE mentor?

The right mix of knowledge, passion and rapport makes a great ACE mentor. Someone who connects with the students in a way that demonstrates a sincere desire to help, and a commitment to make a difference. ACE mentors are team players willing to dedicate up to 30 hours of their time during the school year. Mentors are dedicated professionals who are passionate about what they do and want to share that with the next generation of the industry’s workforce. Ideal qualities for a mentor are enthusiasm and the ability to develop a rapport with the students. Young mentors often can relate to the students more readily, but mentors of all ages have been very successful. Also, the closer the diversity of the mentors matches that of the students, the easier it will be to form strong relationships.

How ACE mentors gain from the experience.

We hear again and again that ACE mentors experience a profound sense of altruistic "giving back" when involved with ACE and its young participants — the gratification that comes with sharing knowledge and wisdom with eager students. In addition, mentoring presents a variety of networking opportunities, as well as chances to sharpen individual presentation and other professional skills.

Talk to your ACE coordinator.

Mentors often come from organizations actively involved in some way with a local ACE affiliate. If you're part of such an organization and want to become a mentor, talk to your ACE coordinator. If your organization is not currently an ACE participant, and you'd like to become a mentor or volunteer, please fill out our online application.

What are the benefits to my company?:

Besides feeding the pipeline with the next generation of construction industry workforce, your company will benefit from its involvement with ACE. The program:

· Enhances your company image, within the industry and also the community

· Provides networking opportunities, for both mentors and principals

· Connects your firm to talented and motivated part-time help and to potential future employees

· Enhances young professionals presentation and communication skills

· Creates an opportunity to “give back” to your community and to your industry

What is my firm’s commitment?:

The main commitment a company makes is empowering its staff to give time to the ACE Mentor Program.

Teams meet in an after-school setting during the school year. A total of 15 – 20 two-hour sessions are held at either the school or the offices of the mentors. A firm’s time commitment is approximately 30 – 40 hours each school year. Additional time may be necessary to organize for a mentoring session. Many firms provide refreshments for the students and supplies that may be needed to complete a related activity.