ACE Mentor Program of Greater Akron-Canton

Since its inception in 2017, the Akron-Canton affiliate of the ACE Mentor Program has provided more than $130,000 in scholarships to over 15 students and guided nearly 370 students through the program. ACE works in partnership with Akron Public Schools and Canton City Schools. Approximately 70 volunteers from more than 50 local firms from the design, engineering, and construction industries participate in the program.

High school students in the Greater Akron-Canton area can now benefit from a nationwide program designed to introduce them to the wide range of career opportunities open to young people in architecture, construction, engineering, and related areas of the building design and construction industry. At bi-weekly meetings, student teams work directly with professionals from leading area firms, who volunteer their time to mentor the teams as they design hypothetical projects, tour local construction sites, and visit architectural, engineering and construction offices. For students, it’s a unique chance to discover and develop new skills, solidify future goals and get on track to exciting, 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 MISSION To engage, excite, and enlighten high school students to pursue careers in architecture, engineering, and construction through mentoring and continued support for their advancement into the industry. PRIMARY GOALS Help build a large, diverse, and better-prepared workforce. Prioritize engaging students and communities traditionally underrepresented in the industry. Assist and guide students by providing scholarships, internships, and mentoring as they pursue career pathways into the industry.