Become a Mentor

FAQs

WHAT MAKES A MENTOR?

There is no substitute for experience — the ACE Mentor Program is driven by the committed and enthusiastic participation of volunteer mentors who are practicing professionals in their respective fields. ACE offers high school students the best opportunities because ACE offers the best industry mentors. You don't have to be an expert in any specific field. A passion for the ACE industry and a desire to mentor youth is all you need!

WHAT IS THE MISSION?

1. Enlighten and motivate students toward architecture, construction, engineering, and other related careers.

2. Provide mentorship for future designers and builders.

3. Increase the supply of candidates in the design and construction industry, including a focus on communities often underrepresented in the industry.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE YEAR?

Mentoring sessions with students: weekly team meetings, site visit field trips, etc. Meetings often take place in the school after school hours (3pm-5pm) or during class around 12:00 noon weekly during the spring semester.

End of year celebration the week of May 11
Special networking events for mentors: orientation, mentor appreciation happy hour, etc.
Summer internship opportunities: ACE firms have access to a pool of interns to host for the summer! Reach out to us for more info.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

The benefits to mentoring with ACE include:

1.Provides an opportunity to “give back” to Baltimore

2.Enhances your company’s image, within the industry and also in the community

3.Provides networking opportunities with other mentors

4.Provides community service hours to interns for licensing requirements

5.Provides a potential connection for your firm to talented and motivated students, and potential future full-time employees.

WHAT SORT OF COMMITMENT IS INVOLVED?

TIME: The main commitment a mentor makes is time! The program consists of 15 two-hour sessions from January to May. There are opportunities to sign up for all, some, or just one of these sessions as a lead mentor, mentor, or guest mentor respectively.

KNOWLEDGE: While we know you know your stuff, and value your knowledge, don’t worry about the lessons themselves. We have laid everything out that you will need to help the students learn the basics and accomplish the final task. Check out our toolkit from last year here for an example!

LEADERSHIP: Each ‘team’ has a designated leader/co-leader duo. Team leaders spend additional time checking with affiliate director, ensuring flow and mentor attendance. If you are interested in participating as a team leader, please reach out!

MEETING TIMES Where you mentor is dependent on your availability, work/home location, and our needs!

OPTIONAL: Some mentors / firms choose to supply incidental tools and supplies (scales, straightedges, computers with CAD, etc.) to the students. This is dependent on student/school need and firm access.

Become a Mentor Become a Mentor