DPR and Girls Inc. Empower Next Generation of Female Builders at Design & Build Camp in Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA, PA — August 7, 2025 — A two-day Design & Build Camp in Philadelphia is helping to reshape the future of the construction industry—one young builder at a time. Hosted by DPR Construction in partnership with Girls Inc., the camp gave 25 girls between the ages of 10 and 14 a unique, hands-on experience at the Roberts Children’s Health jobsite, part of the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia expansion.
The camp aimed to spark curiosity, confidence, and career interest in a field where women currently represent less than 4% of labor-based roles. Through engaging activities like carpentry workshops, virtual reality design walkthroughs, and interactive safety demos, the young participants got a real-world taste of what it's like to build—and to lead.
“There are more projects to build in America than skilled workers to build them,” said Scott Sircovitch, project executive at DPR Construction. “At DPR, we want to do our part to expand pathways to construction careers and build strong communities. The Girls Inc. camp is one of the many ways we’re hoping to inspire the next generation of builders and show them what’s possible when they’re given access, mentorship and the opportunity to explore careers they may not have considered.”
Girls explored architecture and engineering concepts, learned how construction teams collaborate, and even met female professionals in leadership roles, helping them visualize their own potential in traditionally male-dominated spaces.
“This camp wasn’t just about learning new skills—it was about expanding what our girls believe is possible,” said Lillian Knoerzer, partnership manager at Girls Inc. “When girls are surrounded by people who believe in them and invest in their growth, they begin to see themselves as innovators and changemakers. That’s the power of this partnership—it helps girls step into their strength and envision bold futures.”
The setting—an active jobsite—lent authenticity and excitement, helping participants grasp the tangible impact construction has on communities. For many, it was their first time setting foot on a construction site, let alone wearing a hard hat, handling tools, or walking through a 3D BIM model using VR goggles.
More Than a Camp: A Step Toward Workforce Equity
With the U.S. facing a projected shortage of over two million skilled tradespeople by 2030, initiatives like this camp are more than enrichment—they’re a strategic response to an urgent labor challenge.
DPR’s outreach efforts align with its broader commitment to community building through skills-based volunteering, educational partnerships, and facility improvements for nonprofits. The company sees workforce diversification as both a social responsibility and an industry imperative.
“We don’t just build hospitals and schools—we build futures,” said Sircovitch. “And that starts by investing in the next generation.”
Girls Inc., a national nonprofit focused on empowering young women, echoed that sentiment.
“This partnership is about visibility,” Knoerzer added. “When girls see women working confidently with tools and leading projects, they’re more likely to imagine themselves doing the same. That changes the game—not just for them, but for the entire industry.”
Looking Ahead
Following the success of this year's camp, DPR and Girls Inc. hope to expand the initiative to other cities and build lasting pipelines for girls interested in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) and skilled trades. Several campers expressed interest in returning next year—and even pursuing internships when they’re older.
The message was clear: with the right exposure, mentorship, and belief, girls can and will build the future.
Originally reported by DPR.