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Adopt-A-School

Each year, the AGC MA Boston Pipeline Adopt-a-School Program introduces 4th and 5th grade students from Boston Public Schools to the exciting world of construction through engaging, STEM-focused experiences. Organized by the AGC MA Committee for Diversity and Inclusion, the program connects students—particularly those from underrepresented communities—with construction professionals who share their stories, demonstrate real-world technology, and inspire the next generation of builders.

Since its launch, Adopt-a-School has become one of AGC MA's signature workforce development initiatives, bringing together hundreds of industry volunteers to visit multiple Boston schools on the same day. The program is designed to broaden students' understanding of construction careers while highlighting the creativity, innovation, teamwork, and problem-solving skills that shape the built environment.

Program Impact

The AGC MA Boston Pipeline Adopt-a-School Program continues to grow each year, expanding its reach across Boston Public Schools and strengthening connections between students and the construction industry.

Program Highlights

  • 1,000+ students introduced to careers in construction
  • 400+ industry volunteers participating over the life of the program
  • 30+ AGC MA member companies engaged in workforce outreach
  • Visits to multiple Boston Public Schools annually
  • Hundreds of hands-on STEM learning experiences delivered each year

Hands-On Learning Experiences

Adopt-a-School is built around interactive activities that encourage students to think like builders, engineers, and project managers. Throughout the day, students rotate through engaging experiences led by AGC MA volunteers and industry professionals.

+ LEGO Construction Challenge

Students work in teams to complete a LEGO building challenge that introduces concepts like project planning, communication, collaboration, and problem-solving. The activity reinforces how construction projects rely on teamwork and strategic thinking to succeed.

 

+ Sustainability Activities

Through games such as Sustainability Bingo and other interactive exercises, students learn how today's construction industry is creating healthier, more environmentally responsible communities through sustainable building practices.

+ Career Conversations

Construction professionals from AGC MA member companies share their career journeys and discuss the many pathways into the industry—from engineering and project management to field operations, safety, technology, and skilled trades. Students have the opportunity to ask questions and see firsthand the wide variety of careers available in modern construction.

 

+ PPE Experience

Students also get to explore personal protective equipment (PPE), learning why safety is one of the industry's highest priorities while trying on hard hats, safety vests, and other jobsite equipment.

+ Author Read-Along with Courtney Kelly

One of the most memorable parts of the Adopt-a-School experience is a live read-along with children's author Courtney Kelly, whose books introduce young readers to the world of construction through fun, engaging stories.

Students have enjoyed readings of both Celeste Tunnels Underground and Celeste Saves the City, followed by interactive discussions that connect the stories to real construction projects happening in their own communities. Through storytelling, Courtney helps students see how engineers, builders, and construction professionals shape the world around them while inspiring curiosity about STEM careers.

+ Construction Technology in Action

Students also experience the innovative technology shaping today's construction industry through live demonstrations from industry professionals.

One of the program's highlights is a visit from a professional drone operator, who demonstrates how drones are used on construction projects for surveying, mapping, inspections, progress tracking, and jobsite safety. These demonstrations help students see that modern construction combines engineering, technology, and innovation—not just traditional building methods.

Additional demonstrations and volunteer presentations expose students to the tools, equipment, and technologies that make today's construction industry one of the most advanced STEM career fields.

By introducing students to construction at an early age, Adopt-a-School helps build awareness of rewarding STEM careers while supporting AGC MA's long-term commitment to workforce development, diversity, and creating a stronger, more representative construction industry.

Interested in learning more about the Adopt-A-School Program? Contact Samilys Rodriguez, AGC MA - Director of Career Development & Industry Inclusion, at rodriguez@agcmass.org.