San Francisco, California, October 13, 2025
News Summary
DPR Construction’s Build Up Internship Program offers high school students hands-on experience in the construction industry, promoting inclusivity and skill development. Launched in 2017, this eight-week program targets students from low-income families, providing a competitive wage and an opportunity to explore various construction roles. With a focus on closing the gender gap, nearly 50% of interns are young women. The program has positively impacted over 160 students, with many aiming to be the first in their families to attend college.
San Francisco, California – DPR Construction is making significant strides in empowering high school students through its Build Up Internship Program, which provides interns with hands-on experience in the construction industry. Launched in 2017, this program is designed to foster inclusivity and equip students with skills necessary for a future in construction.
The Build Up program spans eight weeks and is targeted towards high school juniors and seniors from low-income families as defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Participants receive a competitive hourly wage for their full-time work, ensuring that they gain valuable experience while earning financial support.
Since its inception, the program has welcomed over 160 students, with a notable 22% returning as college interns, while some have secured full-time positions at DPR. In 2025 alone, 31 interns joined the ranks of the company, highlighting the program’s growth and impact. Many of these interns, about 75%, are poised to be the first in their families to attend college, reflecting the program’s commitment to fostering future generations of learners.
A significant focus of the Build Up program is addressing the gender gap in the construction field. Almost 50% of the interns are young women, aiming to create a more balanced workforce and encourage female participation in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Students explore various roles within construction management, project planning, and the application of innovative construction technologies, such as BIM 360, CMIC, HammerTech, and Primavera.
Participants not only gain technical skills but also develop essential business competencies, including communication and time management. Furthermore, interns culminate their experiences with a final presentation that enhances their public speaking and project management capabilities. Safety on job sites is also a priority, with interns receiving in-depth training on jobsite safety procedures.
Diane Shelton, DPR’s Community Initiatives Leader, points out that the Build Up program’s focus on diversity is pivotal to improving the construction workforce’s inclusivity. The internship has made a positive local impact, illustrated by success stories like that of Selome Muruts, who transitioned from an intern to a college intern and is currently pursuing a degree in civil engineering.
The Build Up program serves as an essential launchpad for students’ careers, promoting mentorship, confidence building, and exploration within the construction field. DPR Construction is committed to further expanding the Build Up program with a clear focus on inclusion and education, aiming to shape a skilled and confident future workforce reflective of the communities it serves.
Key Features of Build Up Internship Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Duration | Eight weeks |
| Target Participants | High school juniors and seniors from low-income families |
| Compensation | Competitive hourly wage |
| Total Interns Since 2017 | Over 160 |
| Return Rate | 22% return as college interns |
| Female Participation | Almost 50% |
| Key Skills Developed | Communication, time management, technical training |
| Final Project | Public speaking and project management presentation |
FAQ
What is the Build Up Internship Program?
The Build Up Internship Program by DPR Construction is an eight-week paid internship designed to give high school students hands-on exposure to the construction industry.
Who can apply for the internship?
The program is targeted towards high school juniors and seniors from families that meet HUD low-income standards.
What skills do interns learn during the program?
Interns learn about project planning, technology, communication, time management, and gain experience using innovative construction software and safety procedures.
Is there a focus on diversity within the program?
Yes, the program emphasizes improving diversity in the construction workforce and encourages female participation, with nearly 50% of the interns being young women.
What are the outcomes for participants after the internship?
Approximately 22% of participants return as college interns, some go on to join DPR full-time, and many plan to be first-generation college students.
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Additional Resources
- DJC: City News on DPR Construction
- DJC: Another News on Construction
- Arup: Early Careers Internships
- Turner Construction: Careers
- Wikipedia: Construction Industry
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