ISG and Mankato Area Public Schools Expand Career Exploration Program Connecting High School Students to Architecture, Engineering, and Construction Administration

ISG partnered with Mankato Area Public Schools (MAPS) to introduce an Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) track within the existing MAPS Career Exploration Program. Rolled out in spring 2025, this new industry pathway generated excitement among students, educators, and the broader Mankato community.

Seven students, juniors and seniors, from Mankato East and West High Schools participated in the AEC-focused program, working out of ISG’s downtown Mankato office four days a week. Throughout the 16-week semester, they collaborated with professionals across 12 practice groups, including architecture, engineering, planning, and environmental services. The students gained hands-on experience with project work, explored industry tools and technologies, visited active and completed project sites, and discovered potential career paths within the AEC industry.

“The internship helped me figure out what path I will pursue in the future and what steps I need to take to reach my goals,” said Cameron, a senior at Mankato East High School. “With your [ISG] help, I am much more confident going forward in my career.”

ISG’s Talent Engagement team played an integral role in guiding students through the experience by answering questions, offering mentorship, and providing an inside look at careers in the AEC industry.

“There is no better way to learn than to get your boots muddy. Hands-on experiences like this give students a meaningful connection to the work we do,” said Kelly Herfendal, environmental scientist at ISG. “By stepping into the field, they are not just learning about the environment—they are seeing how they can be part of protecting it.”

This collaboration highlights a shared commitment of ISG and MAPS to support career readiness and workforce development in southern Minnesota. Alongside technical training, students also received performance coaching focused on soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving—critical tools for success in any workplace.

“Sam [Junior at Mankato West High School] had a great experience. He entered the program knowing very little about the field of engineering and left telling college admissions it is the major he is most interested in,” said Erin Simmons, executive director at Mankato Youth Place Inc, and a parent of a participating student. “I was especially impressed by the coaching and leadership development he received, particularly the StrengthsFinder assessment, which helped Sam better understand himself, his strengths, and how those might shape his future career path.”

To wrap up the semester, students presented what they had learned through a final poster showcase, reflecting their creativity, technical growth, and newfound understanding of the AEC industry. Several students expressed plans to pursue careers in architecture, engineering, or construction following graduation, inspired by their time in the program.

Looking Ahead

ISG and MAPS plan to continue offering the AEC-focused track in future semesters, giving more students early exposure to design and construction careers. By equipping students with both technical and professional tools, the program fosters curiosity, builds confidence, and helps shape the next generation of designers, engineers, and builders—one semester at a time.

Community + Industry Collaboration

The success of the program was amplified by the contributions of external partners who shared their time, insights, and expertise. From university professors to industry professionals, these collaborators provided students with a broad and inspiring view of the AEC world.

Special thanks to:

• Minnesota State University, Mankato – Electrical Engineering: Dr. Wu
• Minnesota State University, Mankato – Construction Management: Leah Roue
• South Central College – Architecture and Civil/Survey: Julie Steinke and Jay Stencil
• North Dakota State University – Architecture: Brittany Taplin and Susan Kliman
• Knutson Construction: Colin Bennett, Jared, and Jack
• Mankato Area Public Schools: Ashley Hawker
• Mankato Area Public Schools: Caleb Watson

Students also gained real-world exposure through guided visits to local ISG project sites, including Hotel Mankato, Dakota Meadows, Orthopedic & Fracture Clinic, Blue Earth County Public Works, Rolls Royce, ISG Field, and a Mankato Surface Water tour. These immersive experiences brought classroom concepts to life and helped students envision their future in the industry.

Student Spotlights:

Sam Simmons, Junior, Mankato West High School

• Top Interests: Mechanical Engineering and Structural Engineering
• Key Takeaways: Sam enjoyed drawing structural plans and visiting stormwater sites. The program reinforced that there is no single path to success. He emphasized the importance of attending an accredited college and communicating effectively in any role.

Ian Ray, Junior, Mankato West High School

• Top Interests: Mechanical Engineering, Structural Engineering, and Drone Surveying
• Key Takeaways: Ian gained valuable insights through hands-on activities, learning the importance of adaptability, thoughtful planning, and using the right tools to get the job done. He emphasized that adapting to project conditions and maintaining strong communication is essential in every role.

Grady Hatlestad, Senior, Mankato West High School

• Top Interests: Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, and Project Management
• Key Takeaways: Grady was especially interested in project management, gaining insight into the importance of communication and coordination when overseeing a building plan. He plans to attend University of Wisconsin-Stout, with hopes of one day owning his own firm.

Garrett Timm, Senior, Mankato West High School

• Top Interests: Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Stormwater, and Landscape Architecture
• Key Takeaways: Site visits stood out to Garrett, especially those that showed what construction looks like in practice. He also developed a deeper interest in GIS, appreciating how it combines research with insight into why something was built and what a community needs. His future goal is to pursue his electrician’s license.

Zoe Lienemann, Senior, Mankato West High School

• Top Interests: Landscape Architecture and Interior Design
• Key Takeaways: Zoe was inspired by hands-on learning and site tours. She was drawn to architecture for its creativity, variety, and collaborative nature. She plans to study at Colorado State University and pursue a career as an architect.

Lukas Magaard, Junior, Mankato East High School

• Top Interests: Construction Management
• Key Takeaways: Lukas was impacted by hearing professionals share their career journeys. Inspired by Minnesota State University, Mankato visits and Knutson Construction talks, his goals include applying to a construction management program, securing an internship, and one day managing projects of his own.

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