Winning the War for Talent: Mentors Wanted for the ACE Mentor Program

Mentors like Jake make a difference.

By Tom Emison, Vice President of Strategy and Innovation, Kraus-Anderson Construction Company

The “War for Talent,” a term coined by Steven Hankin of McKinsey & Company in 1997, describes the increasingly competitive effort to recruit and retain talented employees.

In construction, high-performing companies take a proactive approach to developing the next generation of professionals. At KA, the goal is to get ahead of the challenge by helping build the talent pipeline before workforce needs become more urgent.

That work includes collaboration with architects and engineers. Together, industry professionals can introduce high school students to rewarding careers in architecture, engineering and construction through mentoring and support their continued advancement in the industry.

That is why Kraus-Anderson has been involved with the ACE Mentor Program.

What Does an ACE Mentor Do?

ACE mentors are professionals from architecture, construction and engineering organizations who are passionate about their work and want to share that enthusiasm with the next generation.

Strong mentors are engaged, enthusiastic and comfortable working with students. Younger mentors may relate especially well to high school participants, while mentors of every age and background can build meaningful relationships and make an impact.

Mentors typically contribute up to 35 hours during the school year, averaging about two hours per week across a 20-week program.

ACE students work on projects throughout the program and participate in a friendly, year-end presentation and competition. Their presentations showcase innovations and the industry knowledge they developed during the program.

How Does the Program Support Construction Careers?

Several KA leaders have served in leadership roles with the Twin Cities ACE affiliate. Jake Boerboon serves on the local ACE board and has also been an ACE mentor.

“I can’t tell you how motivating it is for me as a leader to help students see our industry for what it really is,” Boerboon said. “They really like the career opportunities our industry offers, and ACE mentoring has helped many students transform their plans after high school. It has helped me as a leader, too. Mentoring helps both parties excel.”

The program has a meaningful effect on participants’ education and career plans. According to ACE Mentor Program data cited in the original article, 68% of ACE students planned majors in architecture, engineering or construction, and 73% said ACE motivated them to attend college.

Become an ACE Mentor

Each school year, KA invites its leaders and architecture and engineering partners to volunteer with ACE. Mentors can help students explore careers, build confidence and see opportunities in the architecture, engineering and construction industry.

Watch the original ACE mentor volunteer video or complete the ACE mentor interest form.

Learn more about the ACE Mentor Program, construction careers for high school students, opening doors to construction careers and workforce development partnerships.