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Northwestern, McCormick Recognized by Chicago Architecture, Construction, and Engineering Mentor Program

Northwestern University and the McCormick School of Engineering recently received 2012 Education Award from the Chicago ACE (Architecture, Construction, and Engineering) Mentor Program. The University was honored for their mission to "to inspire the leadership of ACE and our students, asking us to connect creativity, engineering, and our lives in the ways demonstrated by the leadership, faculty, and programming of the University.”

McCormick Dean Julio M. Ottino (second from right) with ACE board members and guests. Photo by Erin Drewitz.The award was one of three presented at the seventh annual Chicago ACE Mentor Program Luncheon on Feb. 23. Other honorees include esteemed Chicago architecture firm Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture, recipients of the Green Visionary Award, and the U.S. General Services Administration, recipient of the Civic Award.

Chicago ACE presents awards to organizations, businesses, and individuals with a commitment to disadvantaged youth and to the design, construction, and development industries. McCormick was honored for its outstanding contributions to the industries of architecture, construction, and engineering, as well as its commitment to the “creation, exploration, and application of engineering and scientific principles to the solution of problems and the advancement of society."

In 2008, McCormick developed the Architecture, Engineering Design program to prepare engineering students for collaborative careers in the building industry — as architects, structural designers, builders, project managers, or developers. The six-course certificate program teaches students to gain a broad understanding of building systems and design, develop their ability to communicate and collaborate with architects, and explore issues in sustainability and green design of buildings. The program, made possible through a donation from Richard and Madeleine Halpern and RISE International, also includes an international experience, during which students travel to another country to spend a week studying at an architecture firm. The program is directed by Laurence Booth, Richard Halpern/RISE International Distinguished Architect in Residence and design principal of Booth Hansen Associates. Studio and specialty courses are taught by Booth, other experienced architects, and local building industry professionals.

A partnership among industry professionals, Chicago ACE works to increase high school students’ awareness about career opportunities through structured mentorship relationships, scholarships, and internships.