ACE Mentor Program Launches National Initiative to Introduce Students to Careers in Architecture, Construction and Engineering.

--- Second Largest Employment Industry In The U.S. Sponsors Program That Addresses Growing Need For Talented Professionals ---

STAMFORD, Conn. -- The Architecture, Construction and Engineering (ACE) Mentor Program announced it has stepped up its nationwide efforts to introduce the nation's high school and college students to the potential of careers in the industry through its highly acclaimed mentoring program. Created to address the growing need for skilled professionals in the architecture, construction and engineering industries - a shortage that could become a crisis if current trends continue - the ACE initiative is backed by a coalition of the industry's top companies that includes Turner Construction, EMCOR Group, PSI, Gilbane Building Company, and McGraw Hill Construction, among many others.

The program includes localized outreach and mentoring to students in the 90 markets across the country where ACE has a presence, and beyond. It also includes national advertising, a newly designed website (www.acementor.org), and collateral materials, including a range of posters and a brochure, all designed to engage students, parents, and educational institutions and communicate the potential of careers in architecture, construction, engineering, and related fields.

"The construction industry is the second-largest employer in the U.S. With 50 percent of all buildings that will exist by the year 2030 not even built yet, it is a growing industry. However, current statistics project that the need for qualified, skilled individuals working in the field will far exceed the supply, with over 1 million job openings by 2012. This is a crisis that we cannot afford - the growth of our country depends on finding solutions," said Dr. Charles H. Thornton, Founder and Chairman of ACE. "This national initiative will help to begin the careers of a new generation of talented professionals and marks an historic opportunity for us to make a difference and continue the growth of an industry that is so important. There are jobs in the construction industry for skilled and trained high school and college graduates alike. And the unique aspect of the construction industry is that the jobs can't be outsourced offshore."

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the U.S. construction industry employs over 7 million people and generates over $230 billion per year, accounting for more than 8 percent of activity in the economy and more than 10 percent of all businesses.

About The ACE Mentor Program

The ACE Mentor Program was founded by the principals of leading design and construction firms, to introduce high school students to career opportunities in the industry. The mission of the organization is twofold: to enlighten and motivate students toward architecture, construction, engineering, and related careers; and to provide mentoring opportunities for future designers and constructors. ACE makes a special attempt to reach students that otherwise may not become aware of the challenges and rewards of a career in the design and construction industry.