Careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) are just as important now more than ever. Despite the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry continues to move forward. As the needs and demand for STEM-related jobs continues to rise, Primera remains committed to helping to mentor and encourage students to pursue these types of careers.

On October 13^th, our Architectural Group Lead and Code Consultant expert, Jill Deichmann, participated in the American Institute of Architects’ (AIA) first-ever Virtual Speaker Week in partnership with Chicago Public Schools (CPS). Through the organization’s Career and Technical Education’s CAPTM (Construction, Architecture, Pre-engineering, Transportation, and Manufacturing) team, the virtual event provided an opportunity for sophomores to learn about a specific career and industry. Jill spoke with students at Benito Juarez Community Academy about the career path she followed to become an architect. For some students, it was their first interaction with a professional in this industry and many had questions about the day-to-day job and next steps toward a STEM career.

“I am grateful for opportunities such as these to inspire and advance not only a career in architecture, but STEM education as a whole,” says Jill. “I truly believe we all need to do our part to give back to the industry and invest in our future workforce.”

The American Institute of Architects Chicago (AIA Chicago) is the largest chapter of licensed architects, architectural interns, and allied professionals within AIA Illinois, and the second largest AIA chapter in the country. To learn more about the Chicago chapter please click here.