San Francisco, CA, October 13, 2025
News Summary
DPR Construction’s Build Up High School Internship program offers hands-on experiences for high school juniors and seniors in the construction industry. Launched in 2017, the eight-week paid internship aims to promote diversity and inclusivity, welcoming students from low-income families, with a significant percentage being first-generation college students. Since its inception, over 160 students have participated, gaining essential skills and insights into various construction roles. The program emphasizes mentorship and professional development, fostering a diverse future workforce in construction.
San Francisco, CA – DPR Construction’s Build Up High School Internship program offers high school students invaluable hands-on experience in the construction industry, aiding their personal and professional growth. Launched in 2017, Build Up sets a benchmark for inclusivity in the construction sector, operating as an eight-week paid internship program tailored for high school juniors and seniors.
This year, the Build Up program welcomed 31 interns across the company. Over its six-year span, more than 160 students have participated in this initiative, with some achieving full-time positions within DPR after their internships. The program not only provides competitive hourly wages but also equips students with essential skills for future employment. Interns gain insights into project planning, technology, and various roles within construction management, making them well-rounded candidates for any career path.
In a commitment to promoting diversity, the program specifically targets students from families falling under HUD’s low-income standards, with 75% of participants identifying as first-generation college students. This proactive approach to inclusion helps address the significant gender gap in the construction industry: nearly 50% of interns are young women. The initiative aims to promote mentorship and build confidence among underrepresented groups, fostering a skilled workforce of the future.
DPR’s Community Initiatives Leader emphasizes that the Build Up program is dedicated to enhancing diversity within the construction industry. Each intern engages in professional development through a curriculum that includes essential business competencies, such as communication and time management, alongside technical training. They also work on real-life projects, gaining experience in managing multi-million-dollar budgets and utilizing industry-standard tools like BIM 360, CMIC, HammerTech, and Primavera.
As part of their learning journey, interns complete a final presentation, honing their public speaking and project management skills. Additionally, they receive thorough exposure to job site safety procedures and innovative construction software and technology, further solidifying their readiness for future careers. Students like Selome Muruts demonstrate the program’s impact: transitioning from intern to college intern, she is now pursuing a degree in civil engineering.
The Build Up program serves as a launchpad for these students’ careers, emphasizing the importance of exploration within the construction field. DPR Construction remains committed to expanding the program, catering to the communities they operate within, and facilitating an inclusive environment that supports education and professional growth.
Overall, the Build Up program is making strides toward fostering a confident and diverse future workforce in the construction industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Build Up Internship program?
The Build Up Internship program by DPR Construction provides high school juniors and seniors with hands-on experience in the construction industry through an eight-week paid internship.
Who is eligible to apply for the Build Up Internship?
The program targets students from families that meet HUD low-income standards, with a focus on first-generation college students.
What skills do interns develop during the program?
Interns develop essential business skills, including communication and time management, as well as technical training in areas such as project management and safety procedures.
How many students have participated in the program since its launch?
Over 160 students have participated in the Build Up program since it began in 2017.
What impact does the Build Up program aim to achieve?
The program aims to improve diversity in the construction workforce, promote mentorship, and enhance the skills and confidence of students exploring careers in this field.
Key Features of the Build Up Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Internship Length | Eight weeks |
| Paid Internship | Competitive hourly wages for interns |
| Target Demographic | High school juniors and seniors, focusing on low-income families |
| Diversity Focus | With 50% female interns, addressing gender gap in construction |
| Skills Development | Business skills, technical training, project management, public speaking |
| Program Impact | Serving as a launchpad for future careers in construction |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- DJC: City News on DPR Construction
- DJC: Another News on Construction
- Arup: Early Careers Internships
- Turner Construction: Careers
- Wikipedia: Construction Industry
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