Rising Stars Program

Looks like Kevin McCaskill couldn’t wait! Some exciting news coming in 2025!!

Our mission at Rising Stars is all about connecting young people with real opportunities in the construction industry—and giving them the agency to choose the best path forward. Through networking events, industry exposure and a supportive platform, we open their eyes to the many possibilities that exist. From internships and job opportunities in engineering, architecture and carpentry to roofing and beyond, Rising Stars provides hands-on experiences in every sector. We ensure that every opportunity introduced is attainable, helping students chart a clear path to success. This program isn’t just about learning—it’s about empowering the next generation of industry professionals to take control of their futures. 💪🏾 #RisingStars #FutureOfConstruction #EmpowerYouth

🚧 COMING SOON 🚧 Next month, we’ll be kicking off our “My Life in the Field” campaign, spotlighting the inspiring journeys of Rising Stars grads as they take on real-world challenges in the construction industry. You’ll meet Michael Moore, a 2022 Rising Star who’s now a commercial roofing technician in Florida, and Raymondo Antione, a 2024 Achieve Green graduate and glazing apprentice in Boston. Through their stories, we’ll provide a behind-the-scenes look at the skills, hard work and determination that are shaping the future of construction. Stay tuned to follow their journeys and see how the Rising Stars Program is empowering the next generation of trades professionals. 🛠️ 💪🏾 #RisingStars #ConstructionCareers #MyLifeInTheField

Meet Angelena Edwards, EIT, PMP, Deputy Director—Entrepreneurship Special Interest Group and Board Advisor—2025 Region 1 Collegiate & Professional at the National Society of Black Engineers. 🌟 As a dedicated partner of the #RisingStars Program, Angelena is making a significant impact in our community. Through NSBE, she has provided invaluable speakers who offer insights into engineering, encouragement for completing college education, and highlight the growing demand for skilled trade professionals in construction. Angelena is committed to being a positive role model, particularly for Black women in the field. She actively works to expose interested students to scholarships and resources that can help them succeed. Her passion for mentorship and community empowerment is truly inspiring. Thank you, Angelena, for your unwavering support in nurturing the next generation of leaders in engineering and construction!

Meet Aaron Dean Dean, CEO of the Borough of Brooklyn Center for Arts & Technology, a proud employment partner for the #RisingStars Program! 🌟 At BoBCAT, Aaron and his team are dedicated to helping individuals without college degrees build sustainable, living-wage careers in NYC. Through BoBCAT’s Soft Skills Training program, participants gain essential job-search skills, from resume writing and interviewing to public speaking and professional workplace interactions. BoBCAT also equips students with foundational financial literacy, covering budgeting, saving and asset allocation to help them manage their future earnings. For the past two years, BoBCAT has collaborated with Rising Stars, leading students in financial literacy discussions to emphasize not only career success but also financial empowerment. Thank you, Aaron and the BoBCAT team, for your commitment to empowering Rising Stars students with the skills they need to build fulfilling, financially stable careers!

Our Rising Stars Program is shifting the way we think about education and career exploration in the construction industry. 💪🏾 Post-COVID, students are moving away from the traditional classroom setting. To capture their interest and help them thrive, we’re focusing on hands-on industry experiences. By exposing them to real-world opportunities, we’re helping them discover what truly excites them. This program provides an incredible opportunity for students to connect with local organizations, explore construction-related career paths and meet industry professionals who can guide them. As a generation that’s seen the limitations of conventional education, students are eager for something different. Rising Stars is here to deliver that—helping them unlock their full potential and discover the paths that are right for them after graduation. #RisingStars #EmpowerYouth #CareerExploration

We’re proud to highlight David Giesige, director of career pathways at the Greater Cleveland Career Consortium, a vital community partner for the #RisingStars Program! 🌟 Earlier this year, our Rising Stars Program connected with the GCCC, thanks to Randy McShepard at RPM International Inc. GCCC was recognized as the perfect convener to help engage youth in the Cleveland area, bringing together 11 school district partners to evaluate how best to support Rising Stars. … The result? Cleveland Heights-University Heights School District was chosen as the host district, paving the way for meaningful implementation and expansion across the region. David emphasizes that Rising Stars represents career-connected learning done right. From the first meeting at Heights High, it was evident to him that the program is student-centered, rigorous and experiential—exactly what students need to thrive. Being part of this initiative is not only personally fulfilling for David, but also crucial for helping students take their first steps toward rewarding careers in construction. A huge thank you to David and the GCCC for your unwavering commitment to empowering our future workforce!

Our Rising Stars Program is paving the way for the future of the construction industry 🛠️ This incredible initiative takes students on a journey through the entire spectrum of construction and beyond—from sustainability and design to sub trades, restoration and manufacturing. By diving deep into topics like building science, energy retrofits and construction sequencing, we’re equipping students with the knowledge and hands-on experience they need to explore career paths that align with their passions. Whether they’re inspired by design, intrigued by the trades or excited about construction-adjacent opportunities, Rising Stars empowers them to make informed decisions and pursue careers with confidence. 💪🏾 #RisingStars #EmpowerYouth #BuildingTheFuture

We’re excited to highlight Marcos Garcia, a guidance counselor at the School for Classics and a dedicated advocate for the #RisingStars Program! 🌟 Marcos plays a crucial role in guiding students interested in construction, architecture and design by connecting them with opportunities in Rising Stars. He emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience, technical skill development and essential life skills like problem-solving, time management and communication. Through this program, students not only gain these skills but also build industry connections that give them a head start in the workforce. We're so grateful for the commitment and impact that Marcos brings to helping students launch meaningful careers in construction!

International Volunteer Day is here! 🌍✨ It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the incredible impact of volunteers in shaping stronger, more resilient communities. At Rising Stars, we’re deeply grateful for the volunteers who dedicate their time and expertise to mentoring, teaching and empowering underrepresented youth in the construction industry. Your contributions are key to helping our students gain valuable hands-on experience, build confidence and unlock career opportunities they might not have imagined otherwise. Together, let’s continue creating brighter futures and paving the way for the next generation of industry leaders. 💪🏾 #InternationalVolunteerDay #RisingStars #EmpowerYouth