ACE Mentor Program – Central Coast

ACE Mentor Program – Central Coast

Helping to launch the ACE Mentor Program of America in San Luis Obispo in 2024 was an incredibly rewarding experience—one rooted in expanding opportunities for local students to explore careers in architecture, construction, and engineering. What began as an idea to bring ACE to the Central Coast quickly grew into a vibrant, hands-on collaboration supported by Cal Poly mentors, industry professionals, and local firms.

Much of the groundwork for the Central Coast program was laid by Grace Gruverman, who helped establish the framework and structure of the chapter. Alex Lipker (me) then led the project-based learning component, coordinating with mentors, firms, and students to bring each year’s project to life and ensure a meaningful, educational experience for all participants.

Year One:
Initiated as Cal Poly Construction Management senior Brayden Groshart’s capstone project, the inaugural program introduced San Luis Obispo High School students to the fundamentals of design and construction through the creation of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). Over eight weeks, students explored architecture, structural engineering, SketchUp modeling, cost estimating, and site visits, guided by mentors including Kelsey Parolini, S.E., Anna Win, Eric Marlow, Bryan Shields, Danny Shrestha, Carla Brown, Jeong Woo, and Alex Lipker.

Year Two:
Building on that foundation, the second year expanded to include students from both San Luis Obispo and Arroyo Grande High Schools. Twenty students collaborated with professionals to design a proposal for SLO Fire Station No. 4, demonstrating creativity, teamwork, and real-world problem-solving over a 10-week program.

This initiative was made possible by the dedication of mentors Anna Win, Diane Poon, Alexander Ayuso, Jennifer Brennan, Eric Marlow, Amanda Colvard, Kelsey Parolini, S.E., Danny Ramirez, EIT, and Robin Kim, and supported by Cal Poly student mentors Grace Gruverman, Dayana Flores, Olivia Johnson, and Alex Lipker. With generous support from RRM Design Group, Edwards Construction Group, T&S Structural, and The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company, the ACE Mentor Central Coast program continues to grow—empowering students to explore the built environment and inspiring the next generation of AEC professionals.