STEM education and outreach is a staple in the continued development of the architecture, engineering and construction industry's future workforce.
The architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry is fast approaching a “silver tsunami” in the form of a largely retiring or retirement age workforce. In addition to offering internships and encouraging entry-level hires, Arcadis employees recognize the value mentors have in passing along advanced industry knowledge to the next generation. This mentorship can be particularly powerful when extended into traditionally marginalized or disadvantaged communities.
“In high school, most students are just starting to learn about careers other than becoming a doctor or a lawyer,” said Christi Fu, an Arcadis operations director and mentor with the ACE Mentor Program of America. “Mentorship programs like ACE not only build awareness of AEC careers, but can connect underserved communities and students with resources and experiences that can fuel promising futures.”
In addition to sponsoring ACE, improving quality of life in the communities where we live and work has taken on a new form with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier this summer, we launched a virtual science fair and online K-12 STEM learning resources to help teachers and students continue their pursuit of STEM education despite being unable to meet in person.
“Improving quality of life takes on many forms. Through programs like ACE and our pro bono activities, Arcadis is proud to help students learn more about this industry and to help them build resilient, impactful careers,” said Wassim Selman, president of Arcadis’ infrastructure business line in North America.
Additional information about becoming a mentor, and connecting to mentorship resources, is available on ACE’s website.