ACE Mentor Program of America
The ACE Mentor Program continues to be a powerful force in shaping the future of the architecture, construction, and engineering industries. Sponsored in part by H2M architects + engineers, the program offers high school students a unique opportunity to explore careers in the built environment through hands-on learning and mentorship.

Program Overview
Each ACE team consists of 15–30 students from various high schools and 7–10 mentors who are professionals in the design and construction industry. Over the course of at least 15 after-school sessions, students meet at industry firms, including H2M’s Long Island, New Jersey and Westchester offices, where they are introduced to the fundamentals of architecture, engineering, and construction management. The program culminates in a capstone project: a collaborative, pseudo-design challenge that students present to their families, mentors, and school faculty. This year’s project focused on urban community development, and the results were nothing short of inspiring.

H2M’s Role and Impact
As a proud sponsor, H2M hosts bi-weekly sessions where students work closely with staff mentors on real-world design challenges. This year’s cohort demonstrated exceptional dedication, creativity, and teamwork. Their final presentation showcased not only technical skill but also a deep enthusiasm for the disciplines involved. The students’ passion was evident in every aspect of their work, from conceptual planning to final design. Their urban development project reflected thoughtful integration of sustainability, community needs, and innovative design principles.

Mentorship and Role Models
The success of the ACE Mentor Program would not be possible without the unwavering commitment of the mentors from H2M. These dedicated professionals serve as more than just instructors, they are role models who inspire, guide, and empower students to pursue their dreams. Their mentorship fosters confidence, curiosity, and a strong sense of purpose in each participant. By sharing their expertise and personal journeys, H2M mentors help students envision a future in the design and construction industry and equip them with the tools to succeed.

Student Testimonials

The impact of the ACE Mentor Program is best expressed through the voices of its participants:

• “I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do. ACE introduced me to architecture, and I love it.”
• “It taught me how to work in a team, how to communicate, and the importance of it.”
• “ACE further developed my passion for civil engineering.”
• “I have been part of ACE for three years, and it has prepared me for college and placed me ahead of my peers.”
• “I learned so much from my mentors, they made a big impact on me.”
• “ACE made me feel confident.”

Scholarship Opportunities and Long-Term Impact

Students who participate in the ACE Mentor Program are eligible for scholarships in their senior year. The program awards approximately $2.5 million in scholarships annually, helping students pursue higher education in STEAM fields. Many H2M mentees have gone on to receive substantial financial support and continue their academic journeys in architecture, engineering, and construction management.

Looking Ahead

The success of this year’s program is a testament to the dedication of the mentors, program leaders, and students. H2M remains committed to supporting initiatives like ACE that empower young people, foster diversity in the industry, and build a stronger, more innovative future for our communities. Through continued mentorship, community engagement, and investment in education, H2M is proud to help shape the next generation of design and construction professionals.

Voices from H2M ACE program participants

• “I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, ACE introduced me to Architecture, and I love it.”
• “It taught me how to work in a team, how to communicate and the importance of it.”
• “I have been part of ACE for three years and it has prepared me for college and placed me ahead of my peers.”
• “I learned so much from my mentors, they made a big impact on me. Made me feel confident.”