On October 17, 2024, students from MacArthur High School joined IGNITE Worldwide on an exciting field trip to Fort Myer Construction Corporation. Hosted at Fort Myer’s headquarters, the event brought together construction industry professionals, including Vice President Sam Patel and Director of Transportation Operations Stacy Earl, to give students a firsthand look into the world of construction and project management. The students engaged with a range of Fort Myer’s team members who shared insights into their career journeys, the company’s history, and the many ways Fort Myer contributes to the region’s development.
The day kicked off with a warm welcome from Stacy Earl, who shared a bit of Fort Myer’s history through a video presentation, setting the tone for an immersive experience. Students were introduced to Fort Myer’s impact on local infrastructure, with Vice President Sam Patel walking them through project photos from different stages of completion, sparking questions and interest. During the session on “How We Make Asphalt,” students got hands-on with core samples and production materials, bringing the production process to life and piquing their curiosity. Over lunch, students enjoyed a panel discussion with project managers who answered their questions about career paths, salaries, and job satisfaction. The afternoon wrapped up with Project Executive Philip Constantino’s talk on how technology is transforming construction, closing with a motivating message for students to consider careers in fields where women are often underrepresented.
“This event inspired me to be an independent woman and to achieve my goals.”
10th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me to be more engaged with STEM and to think about my future. My favorite part was learning how they help the community.”
10th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me to approach challenges as a female. STEM allows students to be confident in themselves. I learned that you can do hardworking jobs no matter your gender.”
10th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me when I heard that there are women with big roles in both construction and the office.”
10th Grade IGNITE Student
STUDENTS SURVEYED FOLLOWING PARTICIPATION IN THIS EVENT REPORTED...
76%
INTERESTED IN STEM
68%
KNOW MORE ABOUT STEM CAREERS & THE BENEFITS OF WORKING IN STEM
63%
FEEL MORE CONFIDENT
IN PURSUING STEM
66%
GAINED PERSPECTIVE & FEEL MORE HOPEFUL ABOUT THE FUTURE
Additional Student Feedback:
“I saw how much they help the city by fixing the streets and showing that women can also work in that field. My favorite thing was when they told us they fixed the bridge that collapsed and how they make the streets.” – 9th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today’s event was very fun. I learned that construction workers have different jobs, and those jobs are worth it—they pay well, and some even give raises for overtime. My favorite thing I learned was about the pay because I thought they didn’t make much at all, just because I was told that. I also enjoyed a conversation with one of the staff about why half the workers are Hispanic. I liked everything, really.” – 9th Grade IGNITE Student
“It showed me how to keep pushing for what I want to be, regardless of the circumstances. I also learned statistics about working in construction.” – 10th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me because I’m more interested in STEM now. I’m also interested in construction and thinking about expanding my options. My favorite thing I learned today was about construction and how far you can take it. It can also help in real-world situations. Thank you to the volunteers for teaching us these things.” – 11th Grade IGNITE Student
Thank you to our IGNITE Volunteers and Educators:
- Stacy Earl, Director of Transportation Operations
- Sam Patel, Vice President, Estimating and Project Delivery
- David Love, General Manager
- Jason Miller, Quality Control Manager
- Marziyeh Mehdiabadi, Project Manager
- Philip Constantino, Project Executive
- Angelique Sykes, Educator
About IGNITE Worldwide:
IGNITE Worldwide is a 501(c)3 nonprofit STEM education organization that aims to change gender and racial equity in STEM permanently and systematically. We work directly with teachers during the school day to provide programming that promotes gender equity and representation in STEM academics and careers. Through our award-winning program, IGNITE provides engaging, hands-on events that connect students with STEM professionals from industry leaders from around the world. Learn more at igniteworldwide.org.