F.H. Paschen Celebrates 11 Years of Student Scholars Program with Chicago Public Schools

F.H. Paschen Celebrates 11 Years of Student Scholars Program with Chicago Public Schools

CHICAGO — National infrastructure builder F.H. Paschen is marking a milestone in workforce development, celebrating the 11th anniversary of its Paschen Engineering Scholars Program in partnership with Chicago Public Schools (CPS).

The company welcomed a new cohort of students this week while honoring six graduating seniors during its annual “Hard Hat Ceremony,” a signature event that recognizes student achievement and introduces incoming participants to the program.

Launched in 2015 in collaboration with George Westinghouse College Prep, a selective-enrollment high school located in Chicago’s Garfield Park neighborhood, the Paschen Scholars Program was designed to provide students with hands-on exposure to careers in construction and engineering. Since its inception, more than 60 CPS students from the city’s West Side have participated in the initiative.

Hands-On Training Builds Career Pathways

The three-year program admits six students annually through a competitive selection process, maintaining a cohort of approximately 20 to 24 students at any given time. Participants gain real-world experience through jobsite visits, technical training sessions and mentorship opportunities with industry professionals.

At this year’s Hard Hat Ceremony, students and their families joined educators and company representatives for a headquarters tour and program overview. Attendees also heard from past participants who shared how the program influenced their academic and career paths.

“We built this program to give students real exposure to the work we do every day,” said Chuck Freiheit, chief operating officer at F.H. Paschen. “Eleven years in, we’re seeing students turn that experience into college opportunities and careers in construction and engineering both here at Paschen and across our industry.”

Company leaders, including Project Manager Michael Campbell, College Recruiting Manager Mia Dadian and retired executive Joe Scarpelli, participated in the event, highlighting the organization’s ongoing commitment to mentorship and workforce development.

New Cohort Begins Journey in Construction and Engineering

The newest class of Paschen Scholars will begin the program this summer, starting with site visits to active construction projects across Chicago. Over the next three years, students will build technical skills, explore engineering concepts and gain valuable industry insight as they prepare for college and future careers.

The program reflects a broader effort within the construction industry to address workforce shortages by investing in early education and training initiatives. By engaging students at the high school level, companies like F.H. Paschen aim to create a pipeline of skilled professionals equipped to meet growing infrastructure demands.

As the program enters its second decade, company leaders say its impact continues to expand, providing opportunities for students while strengthening the future of the construction workforce.

Originally reported by F.H. Paschen.