About Us

The ACE program of Greater Knoxville began in the summer of 2018 with a meeting to introduce the ACE program to Knoxville high school principals and UT administrators from architecture, construction, and engineering. The purpose of the meeting was to gauge interest in establishing an ACE affiliate in our city. Principal Tim Berry was very interested in the program and helped establish South-Doyle as the first ACE program in Knoxville in 2019. In 2020, we added two new schools –– The Clayton-Bradley Academy and Fulton High School. In 2023, we hope to add 1-2 additional schools to our program.

In addition to providing exposure to the fields of architecture, construction, and engineering, ACE is also promoting the growth of trade programs acknowledging this serious need in our industry. ACE also provides opportunity in the form of scholarships from funds raised by the local affiliate. In addition, one student from each affiliate can compete for a scholarship from ACE national. To date we have awarded more than $25,000 in just 3 years!

Our Team Projects

Teams of students are paired with diverse groups of industry mentors to explore the fields of architecture, construction and engineering. Students learn what a “day in the life” looks like for each profession and they actively participate in hands-on demonstrations of a related skill. Students also work together to design a final project that aligns with a pre-determined theme.

Additionally, student teams have the opportunity to tour construction and renovation sites for major projects.

Each year, the program culminates with a banquet at which students present their projects to peers, parents, mentors, educators and community leaders.

Board of Directors