Learning by Doing: The Next Generation of Builders

Over twelve transformative weeks, ten high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors from Bostonia Global participated in the AGC Construction Pre-Apprenticeship Program, a paid, hands-on learning experience designed to bridge classroom education and real-world construction careers.

Students earned while they learned — gaining valuable experience in construction safety, applied math, and teamwork, while also completing a financial literacy course that taught them how to budget, save, and manage their earnings responsibly.

Guided by AGC’s expert instructors, each student contributed to a collaborative construction project, learning to plan, problem-solve, and bring an idea to life from the ground up. Beyond mastering technical skills, they built confidence, communication, and purpose — essential tools for success in both work and life.

This pilot program not only introduced students to high-demand, gainful career pathways in the trades but also demonstrated the power of early, career-connected learning: when students are given real experience, they build real futures.

“When we introduce young people to construction early, we’re not just teaching them about tools or trades — we’re opening their eyes to opportunity. The earlier they experience the pride of building something real, the more likely they are to see themselves in this industry. That’s how we create a sustainable pipeline of skilled, motivated professionals who will carry construction into the future.”
— — Glenn Hillegas, Executive Director, AGC Apprenticeship Trust