Hard Hat Scholars Program

NEWS RELEASE – For immediate release
Date: March 11, 2023
Organization: Solano Community College
Contact: Celia Esposito-Noy, Ed.D.
Email: Celia.Esposito-Noy@solano.edu

Fairfield, CA – In collaboration with Kitchell and Square Root Academy, Hard Hat Scholars (HHS) is an immersive dive into the world of AEC (Architecture, Engineering and Construction) for scholars grade 9 – 12. Lead by culturally reflective professionals from the AEC industry, HHS explores a myriad of topics through hands on education, field trips and mentorship to construct the next generation of great innovators. Now in its second year, the Hard Hats program has added additional curriculum structured around professional development and community engagement. Last year’s program culminated in a summer internship for scholar Nathan Evans (pictured above). Half of his 6 week experience was spent with the Solano Kitchell team where he aided in the administration of projects under the Measure Q Bond Program.

Program Snapshot
➢ Curriculum includes instruction and hands on exercises in BIM (Building Information Modeling), 3D Modeling and Design, Project Lifespan, etc.
➢ 3 Field Trip Experiences to Construction Sites
➢ $1,000 Scholarship for all Participants who complete the program
➢ Paid Internship opportunities for youth participants 2022 (the Program’s inaugural year) Hard Hat Scholars by the numbers…
➢ 20 youth participated
✓ 82% identify as part of minority populations
✓ 37% identify as female
✓ 25% received internships
✓ 100% expressed interest in pursuing a career in AEC
➢ $17,000 awarded in scholarships
Left to Right: Nicholas Haystings (Executive Director, Square Root Academy), Nathan
Evans (Hard Hat Scholar & Program TA), Kristoffer Bridges (Project Manager, Kitchell)