.jpeg)
ace of northeast florida students
ACE is more than learning about architecture, construction, and engineering. You’ll work alongside industry professionals, collaborate with other students on hands-on projects, explore real workplaces and career paths, and build skills that can help shape your future.
free and open to high school
students
Curious about architecture, construction, engineering, or the skilled trades? You don’t need prior experience to join ACE. The program is free for high school students. Find a team that works for you, then complete student registration and parent or guardian consent.
WHAT YOU'LL EXPERIENCE
20
years IN NORTHEAST FLORIDA
13
PROGRAM LOCATIONS
275+
STUDENTS MENTORED ANNUALLY
100+
INDUSTRY VOLUNTEERS
see what others are saying
"ACE definitely helped me with opening my eyes... Had I not gone into ACE, I wouldn't have known that such opportunities were out there."
- Angelo Newman, Student at Paxon School for Advanced Studies
“My favorite ACE experience was Trades Day. Meeting professionals, trying hands-on activities, and exploring different trades made me excited about my future career.”
- Jabri Williams, Student at Atlantic Coast High School
"ACE helped me realize this was my dream."
- Daniela Gomez, ACE Alumni & Architect at LS3P
“This program is where I fell in love with engineering.”
- Lauren Castillo, ACE Alumni & UNF student
"The mentors, the end-of-year event—everything is just amazing for those kids. It really helps them practice teamwork, project management, leadership, and how to work with adults in real work environments."
— Maya Kara Ivanova (Parent)
FIND YOUR ACE TEAM
TAKE YOUR ACE EXPERIENCE
further
ACE students can take advantage of opportunities beyond Northeast Florida to compete, earn financial support, explore careers, and experience college life.
-
Compete Nationally through the CIRT National Design + Construction Competition.
-
Earn Financial Support through ACE National Scholarships and Trades Stipends.
-
Explore the Industry through hands-on Summer Experiences.
-
Experience College Life at ACE Summer Camp at CU Denver.
WHAT YOU CAN
expect
The program typically runs from November through April, with weekly meetings that combine career exploration and team project work. Each meeting features a guest speaker—such as an architect, engineer, project manager, or construction manager—followed by time for students to work on their projects with guidance from mentors.
The ACE Board of Directors provides a Request for Proposal (RFP) outlining three project options. Students form teams, select a project, and assume professional roles as they develop a written proposal, a 10-minute presentation, and a trades project with a short verbal presentation. Throughout the process, students build teamwork skills and learn how industry professionals collaborate.
Construction site field trips and other special events add to the overall excitement of the ACE Mentor Program experience.
Copyright © 2026 ACE Mentor Program of Northeast Florida | Privacy Policy | Cookies | Terms & Conditions | Accessibility | Corporate Policies