About Us
Founded in 1994, the ACE Mentor Program of America (ACE) is a free, award-winning, afterschool program designed to attract high school students into pursuing careers in the Architecture, Construction and Engineering industry, including skilled trades.
ACE is a federation of more than 75 affiliates (chapters), operating in 38 states and Canada, and largely based in metropolitan areas. A national office supports the affiliate programs.
Overview
- Over 10,000 students participate annually, drawn from approximately 1,450 high schools.
- The majority of ACE students (69%) are minority, and over 40% are female.
- One-quarter of ACE seniors entering college are first generation students.
- More than 4,100 volunteer industry professionals mentor student teams through a 35-hour-long simulation of designing and constructing a project.
- Approximately $2.5 million in scholarships are awarded annually to high school seniors and alumni studying to pursue industry-related careers.
- ACE also offers students summer camp and internship opportunities.

Students Served per Year
Mentors per Year
in Scholarships per Year

Impact
More than 70% of ACE seniors annually enter a college or skilled trades program with an industry-related focus.
Large majorities of students report their ACE experience helped them:
- Become more motivated to attend college
- Learn skills and knowledge not taught in their classrooms
- Gain useful information about the design and construction industry
Awards
The Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring which was presented at the White House. This is considered the nation’s most distinguished award for mentoring
Two awards from the American Institute of Architects (AIA), one for collaborative achievement and the other for diversity.
Workforce Development Award from the Construction Users Roundtable (CURT)
