Cleveland High School Students Explore Construction Careers Through Rising Stars Program
CLEVELAND — On a crisp Tuesday evening, a group of high school students from Cleveland Heights High School stepped off a school bus and into the world of construction. The students, part of the Rising Stars program, arrived at Euclid Chemicals for a behind-the-scenes tour, gaining firsthand insight into the industry that shapes the infrastructure around them.
The Rising Stars program, an after-school initiative, aims to introduce high schoolers to careers in construction, offering them a glimpse into a sector often overlooked by traditional career paths. From architecture to skilled trades, the program exposes students to the vast opportunities available in the industry.
“Young people are starting to realize that college isn’t the only path to success,” said Fred Leonard, a senior at Cleveland Heights High School and a Rising Stars participant. “I’m staying in this program to learn more about these careers and see where it takes me.”
Founded by David Hutchinson, CEO of the Rising Stars program, the initiative began as an effort by Tremco, a construction products manufacturer, before evolving into an independent nonprofit. Hutchinson emphasized the program’s mission to bridge the gap between education and employment.
“We’re showing young people how industries can create pathways to their futures,” Hutchinson explained. “It’s not about leaving high school and figuring things out later. We want to equip them with the skills and exposure they need to thrive in the workforce.”
Since its launch two years ago, Rising Stars has expanded beyond Cleveland to high schools in New York, New Jersey, and North Carolina. The program combines hands-on learning with field trips to construction sites and manufacturing facilities, giving students a real-world perspective on the industry. Participants also receive a stipend in the form of a Visa gift card as an added incentive.
During their visit to Euclid Chemicals, students learned how construction materials are developed and how their applications contribute to building projects. The tour was just one of many experiences designed to spark curiosity and inspire career aspirations.
“We’re not just stuck in a classroom,” said Tahfiq, another program member. “We’re out in the world, seeing how these massive projects come together. It’s eye-opening.”
For Tahfiq, the program has sparked an interest in becoming an electrician, while Leonard is set to pursue construction management at Akron University this fall. Both credit Rising Stars for opening their eyes to opportunities they hadn’t considered before.
The construction industry is in dire need of fresh talent. According to the Associated Builders and Contractors, an estimated 456,000 new workers will be needed by 2027 to meet growing demand. Programs like Rising Stars aim to address this gap by inspiring the next generation of builders, architects, and tradespeople.
Hutchinson believes that exposure is key. “Even if students decide construction isn’t for them, that’s still a win,” he said. “At least they understand the industry, and maybe they’ll return to it later. The goal is to empower them to make informed choices about their futures.”
For Leonard, the program has been transformative. “Rising Stars introduced me to construction management and even helped me secure a spot in a free college program,” he said. “It’s been an incredible opportunity.”
As the Rising Stars program continues to grow, its impact on students—and the construction industry—promises to be both significant and lasting.
— Reported by Nexio News
