Weeklong program gives Massachusetts educators firsthand exposure to construction careers, technology and workforce opportunities.
WELLESLEY, Mass. — The Associated General Contractors of Massachusetts (AGC MA) is hosting its sixth annual Building Advancement Externship (BAE) program this week, bringing together Massachusetts educators and workforce professionals for an immersive look at the state’s commercial construction industry.
The weeklong program, running from Aug. 3 through Aug. 7, 2026, is designed to help high school and vocational educators, counselors and administrators better understand the career opportunities available in construction and connect students with pathways into one of the Commonwealth’s growing STEM-related industries.
Participants are visiting active construction sites, contractor offices, apprenticeship training centers and higher education partners while learning about sustainable construction practices, emerging technologies, workforce development, clean energy and career pathways within the industry.
This year’s curriculum places additional focus on sustainability, innovation, wellness and preparing students for the future of construction.
“The Building Advancement Externship gives educators the knowledge, relationships, and firsthand experiences they need to introduce students to the incredible opportunities available throughout the construction industry,” said John Ferrante, CEO of AGC MA. “Each year, our members generously open their doors to show educators how today’s construction industry is embracing innovation, sustainability, and emerging technologies while creating rewarding career pathways for the next generation of the workforce.”
The 2026 program includes educators from high schools, vocational technical schools and workforce development organizations across Massachusetts, including Old Colony Regional Vocational Technical High School, Walpole High School, Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School, Madison Park Technical Vocational High School, Essex North Shore Agricultural & Technical School, Upper Cape Cod Regional Technical School, YouthBuild Boston and Boston Green Academy, among others.
Throughout the week, participants will explore topics including construction management, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, apprenticeship opportunities, healthy buildings, sustainability, decarbonization, leadership, project delivery and clean energy careers through hands-on learning experiences and site visits.
The 2026 Building Advancement Externship is supported by BOND Building Construction, Colantonio Inc., Columbia Construction Company, Consigli Construction Co., Dimeo Construction Company, Erland Construction, Fontaine Bros., North Atlantic Regional Council of Carpenters, Turner Construction Company and Walsh Brothers.
Additional support comes from Quinsigamond Community College, AGC MA’s Building Women in Construction Committee, the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center, AGC Student Chapters and education and workforce development partners.
Founded in 1935, AGC MA represents more than 200 commercial construction firms across Massachusetts. The organization supports the construction industry through advocacy, education, workforce development and member services.
