HGC Hosts First Mayor’s Youth Employment Program Intern

In an effort to deepen our connection to the community and help inspire the next generation of construction professionals, HGC proudly partnered with the Mayor’s Youth Employment Program (MYEP) this summer, joining over 80 other organizations in this impactful initiative. Established in the mid-1980s, the MYEP provides Charlotte’s youth with valuable opportunities to develop career skills, gain hands-on experience, and become confident young leaders.

This year, after an application and interview process, HGC was excited to welcome 16-year-old Jakari McIver to our team. Jakari is a student at Charlotte Engineering Early College High School (CEEC), where he is already building a strong foundation for a future in engineering and construction.

Q&A with Jakari McIver: A Summer with the Mayor’s Youth Employment Program

Q: What led you to get involved with MYEP?

A: My career coordinator at school mentioned this opportunity to me, and it sounded like a fun way to continue preparing for my future while I wasn’t in school. Through CEEC, I’m gaining the education I need to set myself up for success, but having work experience is also important to figure out what career paths I’m most interested in.

Q: How was your internship formatted?

A: My internship was a 6-week, fully immersive experience with the company. I reported to the Team Development Group and worked closely with Suzanna Bailey each day, following a rotation schedule that allowed me to engage with different teams within HGC. I shadowed Project Admins, sat through leadership meetings, rode along with the field trainers, and so much more. It was a fantastic way to spend my summer!

Q: Which part of your internship did you enjoy the most?

A: I enjoyed all the groups I spent time with and appreciated everyone helping me get familiar with the organization. I had the most fun when I went into the field with Tyler Clowes and Nason Gonzalez from the survey team. We visited a project site that hadn’t started moving dirt yet, and they showed me how to stake and flag the ground. They even let me help fly a drone!

Q: How has your perception of the construction industry changed?

A: Before my internship, I always thought construction was a dangerous, high-risk industry. The more time I spent around the HGC team and in the field, I realized that wasn’t true. Safety is weaved into everything here, and the amount of technology in the machines was surprising. It’s not just about physical labor; there’s so much innovation involved.

Q: What advice would you give to someone considering an internship or career in this industry?

A: Be open-minded to different opportunities because you never know where they’ll take you. You may start in a position in the field but realize your skills and interests are better suited for another team. Be an asset, be willing to help, and make connections wherever you go.

Q: How did it feel being a female intern in a predominately male-dominated industry?

A: Overall, it was a great experience! Nobody treated me differently because I was a woman or because I was an intern. We all worked together, and I could tell the team truly wanted to help me learn and grow. Being a woman in construction is important to prove that we can do it too. Having a diverse team is extremely valuable in this industry!

The Impact of the Mayor’s Youth Employment Program

Jakari’s experience is just one example of how the Mayor’s Youth Employment Program is making a difference in Charlotte. By connecting students with organizations like HGC, the program helps bridge the gap between education and real-world career opportunities. Participants gain exposure to industries they might not have considered and build confidence in their skills.

At HGC, we believe that investing in youth is an investment in the future of our industry. Programs like MYEP not only benefit the participants but also enrich our team by bringing fresh perspectives and enthusiasm into the workplace. Jakari’s contributions over the summer were a testament to the potential of Charlotte’s young leaders, and we are proud to have been a part of her journey.

Why Partnering with MYEP Matters

The construction industry faces a growing demand for skilled professionals, and initiatives like the MYEP play a critical role in addressing this challenge. By fostering relationships between local businesses and students, the program helps cultivate a pipeline of future talent while promoting equity and inclusion in the workforce. For HGC, partnering with the MYEP aligns with our mission to support the community and build a stronger, more diverse industry.

As we reflect on this summer’s success, we look forward to continuing our partnership with the Mayor’s Youth Employment Program and welcoming more young leaders like Jakari in the years to come.