News & Insights
Inspiring the next generation through mentorship and education
Salas O’Brien team members invest in the future by mentoring STEM students and supporting schools in our communities. Photo: ACE Mentor Program in Hartford, Connecticut.
Supporting students through mentorship and education is one of the meaningful ways Salas O’Brien contributes to its 50 Acts of Community Impact initiative. By sharing knowledge and resources through mentorship, guest lectures, and educational support, we’re investing in the next generation and shaping the future of the industry.
Mentoring the next generation
Our team members are passionate about guiding students as they explore careers in engineering, construction, and sustainability. Across North America, our offices have encouraged STEM learning by sharing experiences and mentoring future professionals.
Highlights include:
- Teams across North America: Team members serve in the ACE Mentor Program, helping high school students explore careers in architecture, construction, and engineering.
- Atlanta, Georgia team: Sustainability experts shared insights at Agnes Scott College and supported a long-term research project with Wesley Interantional Academy.
- Lebanon Middle School (Lebanon, Indiana): Team members delivered an engaging presentation on the fundamentals of engineering, highlighting both challenges and innovations in the field.
- Iowa State University: Mentors discussed their career experiences with students in the Construction Engineering Program.
- University of Dayton (Dayton, Ohio): Team members volunteered as guest lecturers in the CME 431 Chemical Engineering Senior Design course.
It’s rewarding to show students how sustainability and occupant health connect to the built environment and to see their excitement as they consider careers in this field. Giving them real-world context helps bring their studies to life, and it reminds us why investing in the next generation matters.Lauren MartinAVP and Senior Manager of Development
Sharing knowledge as judges
Our team members also supported students by evaluating their work and providing professional feedback at key competitions and expos.
- Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) World Series of Innovation: Team members served as judges in this national competition.
- University of Cincinnati CEAS Expo: Team members evaluated student projects and shared feedback.
- Ohio Northern University Senior Capstone Project Expo: Team members served as judges, offering insights from their industry experience.
Support through donations and scholarships
Beyond mentoring, Salas O’Brien strengthens education by supporting organizations and funding scholarships that expand opportunities for students.
Recently, in Chesterfield, Missouri, the team provided pro bono structural engineering services to KidSmart, a nonprofit that equips teachers and at-risk students with essential school supplies. And in Seattle, Washington, team members organized a back-to-school backpack drive in partnership with the International Rescue Committee, supporting refugee and immigrant families.
Our dedication to STEM education also extends to financial support through scholarships that help students pursue engineering and related degrees. We award several scholarships to underrepresented students in local communities, such as dedicated scholarships for emerging engineering professionals in Toronto and California.
Building a brighter future
By sharing knowledge and time, our team members are helping open doors for the next generation of STEM leaders. These efforts reflect our commitment to creating opportunities today that will shape stronger communities tomorrow. Learn more about how we give back.
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