In early 2012, High School teachers from across the Cedar Rapids-Iowa City Corridor recognized a challenge that would shape the future of the architecture, construction, and engineering (ACE) industries. Experienced tradespeople were beginning to retire, workforce shortages were emerging, and fewer young people were entering careers related to design, construction, and engineering. Rather than waiting for the problem to worsen, educators began to align curriculum, and industry leaders came together through the ACE Mentor Program and the ACE Sector Board to create a solution.
Those early conversations centered on a simple question: How do we inspire the next generation of builders, designers, and problem-solvers?
One of the most impactful answers was the creation of the STEM Center at Clear Creek Amana High School. While student-built projects have existed for many years, this project represented something different. It brought together architects, engineers, contractors, skilled tradespeople, educators, and students in a mentorship-driven environment that exposed students to the entire lifecycle of a construction project, from design through completion. The project became a visible example of what was possible when industry and education worked together toward a common goal.
As momentum grew, so did the demand for ACE-related coursework in area schools. High school instructors began adopting ACE curriculum, and Kirkwood Community College expanded offerings throughout its regional centers. What started as a handful of sections serving eight to ten students each has grown into multiple sections enrolling fourteen to sixteen students per class. Today, ACE coursework is offered throughout the Corridor and supports students interested in careers ranging from architecture and engineering to skilled trades and construction management.
The growth has extended beyond the high school level. At Kirkwood, students can earn a Construction Fundamentals Certificate through dual-credit programming before graduating high school, and may continue into a one-year ACE diploma or two-year Construction Management degree. The curriculum is intentionally aligned so students experience a seamless transition from high school to postsecondary education.
The ACE pathway introduces students to the full construction process. They learn teamwork and communication through Work-Based Learning, develop technical skills in Architectural Plans and Specifications, gain hands-on experience in Construction Lab courses, and explore the engineering principles behind Structures and Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) systems. Each course builds upon the next, creating a well-rounded understanding of how projects move from concept to completion.
Perhaps one of the most important additions in recent years has been Work-Based Learning. The course focuses on professional skills employers consistently rank among their highest priorities: communication, teamwork, problem-solving, leadership, and stakeholder engagement. Students learn that technical skills are essential, but successful projects ultimately depend on people working together toward a common goal.
That lesson may be more important than ever as artificial intelligence begins reshaping many industries, including construction.
Today, AI is being used for estimating, scheduling, Building Information Modeling (BIM), clash detection, project documentation, and even portions of the design process. These technologies can significantly improve efficiency and help construction professionals make more informed decisions. However, AI should be viewed as a tool, not a replacement for the people who design, build, and manage projects.
At Kirkwood, students are taught to view AI the same way they view a hammer, tape measure, calculator, or power tool. It can improve productivity when used correctly, but it is only as effective as the person operating it. Good information in produces better information out, and every result must still be evaluated through experience, critical thinking, and professional judgment.
Construction remains a people-centered industry. It requires individuals who can communicate with clients, solve unexpected field challenges, coordinate teams, and make decisions when conditions change. While technology continues to evolve, there is still no substitute for the human element or the knowledge gained through years of experience.
Looking ahead, the ACE community has learned another important lesson: career exploration needs to begin earlier. Programs such as Build My Future, STEAM academies, middle school outreach events, and career fairs are introducing students to architecture, engineering, and construction careers long before they reach high school.
The Corridor continues to experience strong growth in housing, infrastructure, healthcare, education, and commercial development. The need for talented architects, engineers, construction managers, and skilled tradespeople remains as critical today as it was when ACE leaders first gathered around the table in 2012.
Fourteen years later, the vision has not changed. The tools may be different, and AI will undoubtedly influence how we work, but the future will still belong to people who can think critically, solve problems, collaborate with others, and bring ideas to life. ACE was founded to develop those skills, and its greatest impact may still be ahead of us.
Author: Aaron McGlynn
Assistant Professor – Construction Management
Kirkwood Community College
