help us make an impact within our industry in 2023!

In partnership with CBRE, On the Rise exposes and immerses high school students from historically excluded communities to the world of commercial real estate with classes specific to Design, Project + Facilities Management, and Tech trades. The program is designed to help students achieve internships, apprenticeships, or full-time jobs. 

Volunteering can be a rewarding and impactful experience for both volunteers and the youth we serve. By providing mentorship and support, you can help level the playing field for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) students and give them the knowledge they need to succeed. Not only will you be making a difference in their lives and in the community, but we’ll also have the opportunity to learn from them while helping diversify the industry with their fresh and unique perspectives.

volunteers: we are looking for YOU!

We’re looking for CRE professional volunteers who…

  • Are passionate about helping BIPOC high school students be exposed to and supported within the CRE industry
  • Are knowledgeable about design, Project Management/Facility Management, and/or Tech Trades
  • Are available for classes held in Spring 2023 with a time commitment of 1.5-4 hours (location will be provided)
  • Will be supported in developing content for the class

the program curriculum

Students will learn what the CRE industry is, what exciting careers they can pursue, and both technical and soft skills that will start preparing for their future. Their experiences culminate with a Portfolio Review judged by top industry professionals and feed into internship programs with participating partners.

General / Self-development
  • Career Panel + Round table
  • Floor Plans, Dimensions Basics, Site Verifications
  • How to Build and Nourish a Network
  • Communication & Interpersonal Skills
  • Mental Health, Self-care, Work-Life Balance
  • Leadership Development
  • End of Course Exhibition and Exhibition Preparation
Design Track
  • Hand Drawing and Sketching
  • Workplace Research Overview
  • Color Theory and Materiality
  • Art and Layout
  • Phases of Design, Drawing and Specification
  • Full-Day Workshop with Local Furniture Manufacturer
  • Environmental Impact & Inclusive Design
  • Design School Visit
Project Management & Facility Management Track
  • A Day in the Life of a FM & Workplace Strategist
  • A Day in the Life of a PM
  • A Day in the Life of a Broker, Developer & Banker
  • SCRUM Methodology
  • Installation and Punch Walks
  • Site Walk and Panel with GC, PM, FM
Technical Track
  • Intro to Tools & Safety
  • Basic Carpentry
  • Electrical Systems
  • HVAC & Refrigeration Mechanics
  • Basic Plumbing
  • Smart Buildings and Digital Systems
  • Microsoft Suite Training, Site Walk and Panel Discussion
  • Thermal Energy Site Walk and Panel

ready to help us make an impact on diversifying our industry and supporting BIPOC youth?

“Think about it — if all the top brokers had to apprentice Black brokers to come up through the ranks, it would change everything.” —Jane Stevenson Vice chairman of the board and CEO of services at management consulting firm Korn Ferry

Questions? Email [email protected]