Salas O’Brien partners with NFTE to inspire the next generation of engineers

Salas O’Brien and global nonprofit Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) hosted a two-hour virtual innovation challenge that brought together more than 150 high school students from underrepresented communities across the Midwest.

The session introduced students to Salas O’Brien’s work and the role engineering plays in shaping communities. Students were divided into small groups and challenged to develop innovative ideas for how AI could be applied in the workplace. More than a dozen Salas O’Brien team members participated as advisors and judges, helping the students develop their pitches and selecting the winning presentations.

John DeRosa, AVP, director of HR Integration & Programs, organized the event as part of Salas O’Brien’s ongoing commitment to engaging students early and expanding awareness of careers in engineering and technology.

When students take on real-world challenges and realize they can solve them, it builds confidence and opens doors. We’re passionate about creating access—giving students the opportunity to explore, ask questions, and connect with professionals who can help them see themselves in this field. Engaging students early, especially those who may not otherwise have access to these opportunities, is how we help expand what’s possible and shape a more inclusive future for our industry.

John DeRosaAVP, Director of HR Integration & Programs

This event builds on Salas O’Brien’s multi-year partnership with NFTE and continues the firm’s efforts to give students meaningful, hands-on learning experiences. Over the past several years, team members have supported similar programs that connect students with real-world industry challenges.

Partnerships with organizations like Salas O’Brien prepare students for the workforce by connecting classroom learning to real-world experience. They help students build critical professional skills, gain exposure to career pathways, and develop the confidence and relationships that make future success possible.

Scott Nasatir, Ed.D.Executive Director, NFTE

Through its ongoing work with NFTE, Salas O’Brien continues to expand access to opportunity and inspire the next generation of STEM leaders. By investing time, expertise, and mentorship, the firm is helping build a stronger, more inclusive pipeline for future engineers and industry leaders.

About NFTE

Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) is a global education nonprofit that empowers partners to integrate entrepreneurial education across curricula and equips youth in under-resourced communities with the skills, connections, credentials, and real-world experiences needed to lead change and own their futures. Learn more.

About Salas O’Brien

Salas O’Brien is an employee-owned engineering and technical services firm focused on advancing the human experience through the built environment. Our team is engineered for impact®, helping clients solve complex engineering challenges with a focus on efficiency, resiliency, and sustainability, while advancing our team members through growth and opportunity. We are a top firm as ranked by Engineering News-Record and Consulting-Specifying Engineer, and we have appeared for over a decade on the Inc. 5000 list of North America’s fastest-growing private companies.

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Early Careers