2026 — Hall of Honors

The ACE Mentor Hall of Honors recognizes individuals whose contributions have played a significant role in shaping the success, growth, and overall impact of the ACE Mentor Program. These honorees embody the mission of ACE and have left a legacy through their leadership, commitment, and influence.

Maria Loitz

Connecticut
Maria Loitz devoted more than two decades to growing the ACE Mentor Program of Connecticut, expanding its reach across the state and helping establish a strong foundation for future generations of students.

Stephen Smith

Los Angeles/Orange County
Steve Smith has devoted 23 years to the ACE Mentor Program of Los Angeles/Orange County, serving as a founding board member and longtime Treasurer while helping grow the affiliate into one of the largest in the nation.

John Norris

Colorado
Through his leadership as a mentor, board member, and board chair, he helped strengthen both the affiliate and the broader design and construction community in Colorado.

Mike Tecci (Posthumous)

Boston
Mike Tecci was a founding leader of the ACE Mentor Program of Greater Boston whose impact as a mentor, board president, and alumni champion transformed the lives of countless students and young professionals.

Rob Turner

Charleston
Rob Turner founded the ACE Mentor Program of Greater Charleston and built it from the ground up, creating opportunities for more than 440 students across 15 schools.

2025 — Hall of Honors

Edmund (Ed) Worthy (Posthumous)

An educator, museum leader, and nonprofit visionary, Ed Worthy’s influence on ACE spanned more than two decades. He authored curriculum, impact studies, and administrative guides that helped shape the national program’s framework. As founder of the Greater Washington, D.C. affiliate, Ed’s legacy continues through the Edmund Worthy Memorial Scholarship, which supports future ACE students.

Jack Tipton

A driving force behind ACE Tennessee since 2005, Jack has served in nearly every role within ACE Nashville and later as the first South Regional Director. Under his leadership, the region grew from seven to nineteen affiliates, expanding opportunities for students and incorporating trade pathways across the Southeast.

John Woodman (Posthumous)

As Executive Director of ACE beginning in 1998, John helped expand the New York City program from eight to 26 teams and spearheaded national growth into major cities like Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., Seattle, and Chicago. A beloved leader and advocate, John’s warmth and humor made an indelible mark on the ACE community.

Jon Magnusson

Founder of ACE Washington, Jon brought ACE to Seattle in 2002 after attending a national event in D.C. Under his leadership, ACE Washington has grown to serve nearly 500 students from more than 90 schools, awarding over $1.5 million in scholarships. A nationally respected engineer, Jon continues to guide and inspire ACE students and mentors alike.

Terry Dooley (Posthumous)

Founder of ACE Los Angeles, Terry launched the affiliate in 2002 with just three schools and 45 students. Today, ACE LA serves more than 500 students annually and has awarded over $1 million in scholarships. A renowned civil engineer and builder, Terry’s vision brought ACE’s mission to the West Coast, inspiring generations of students to enter the industry.