ACE Mentor Program of Idaho Building the Future of Architecture, Construction and Engineering BY JEFF SLINGER, ANDERSEN CONSTRUCTION, AND KEN GALLEGOS, AIA, NCARB, LEED BD+C, LOMBARD CONRAD ARCHITECTS We invite our members to learn about the ACE Mentor Program of Idaho. In this article, Jeff Slinger and Ken Gallegos share their experiences, highlight the program’s impact and outline their vision for its growth. They also issue a call to action for AIA members to support ACE through mentorship, internships or financial contributions, helping to build a strong, skilled and diverse AEC workforce for Idaho’s future. What is ACE? Jeff: The ACE (Architecture, Construction and Engineering) Mentor Program of Idaho is a dynamic initiative dedicated to inspiring and preparing high school students for careers in the built environment. By connecting students with industry professionals, ACE provides hands-on learning experiences, professional development and exposure to real-world projects that help bridge the gap between education and industry. From your perspective in the industry (architect or contractor), why is this important for our state? Jeff: As industry professionals, we recognize the challenges of workforce shortages in architecture, engineering and construction. Idaho’s rapid growth necessitates a skilled and knowledgeable workforce, and the ACE Mentor Program plays a critical role in fostering interest and talent in these fields. By engaging with students early, we help ensure that Idaho has the skilled workforce necessary to sustain and innovate our communities for the future. Ken: The ACE Mentor Program is important for Idaho because we all know there is a shortage of industry trades workers. This program helps expose young high school kids to some hands-on examples of what it may be like out in the field. The program also helps foster and expose kids to the multitude of professions that the design and construction industry offers. From architects, electrical engineers, contractors, construction managers, etc., the students are exposed to all aspects of a project. They are given a project and take it through the same design process that we as professionals follow. What are the goals of the organization? Jeff: The primary objective of the program is to cultivate the next generation of architects, engineers and contractors by offering mentorship, scholarships, summer camp and practical learning experiences. The program aims to: • Inspire students to pursue careers in the built environment. • Provide exposure to industry professionals and real-world simulated projects. • Offer scholarships and internships to students demonstrating passion and commitment. • Create a strong talent pipeline to sustain and grow Idaho’s AEC industry. What has your role been? Ken: I play two roles in ACE of Idaho. I am a board member but also an architect mentor. So that means that I help plan the 40 IDAHO ARCHITECTURE | 2025 | aiaidaho.com
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