A construction career that began through a high school internship has developed into a broader workforce development and community engagement role for DPR Construction team member Brian Ariza, who is now helping create similar opportunities for young people in Atlanta.
Ariza joined DPR’s Build Up High School Internship while attending Norcross High School. The eight-week program provides students with hands-on exposure to construction careers, with participants spending 35 to 40 hours per week supporting construction management activities on active jobsites.
Ariza’s path into construction developed after his experiences with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta. After emigrating from Colombia as a child, he became involved with the organization while his family settled in Georgia.
Through the program, Ariza gained exposure to leadership and career opportunities, including an opportunity to speak at the White House about youth development and career pathways.
Although he initially planned to pursue aerospace engineering, his experience with DPR’s Build Up program introduced him to construction and challenged his expectations about the industry.
After high school, Ariza attended Kennesaw State University while continuing his career with DPR. Since joining the company in 2019, he has worked as a project engineer intern and self-perform work project engineer before moving into his current position as a planning and scheduling engineer.
DPR identifies its high school internship program as part of its efforts to create pathways into construction for students and early-career professionals.
Ariza has continued his connection with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta through mentorship. He previously received the organization's Youth of the Year honor and now mentors current honorees, helping students navigate opportunities and develop career confidence.
His community involvement also extends to DPR's Atlanta business unit, where he co-leads community initiatives.
As part of DPR's annual Service September program, the Atlanta team is partnering with the A.W. “Tony” Matthews Club of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta on facility improvements. Planned work includes landscaping enhancements, new benches and support for a community mural inspired by the club's children.
DPR's broader workforce strategy includes high school internships, career development pathways and partnerships intended to expand access to construction careers. The company has also reported continued efforts to strengthen career progression across craft and administrative roles.
Ariza's career path illustrates how construction companies can connect workforce development programs with longer-term employment and community engagement.
For contractors facing continued demand for skilled and early-career talent, internship programs, mentorship and partnerships with community organizations provide potential pathways for introducing students to construction careers while building relationships with local communities.
Source: DPR.
