On May 1, 2025, IGNITE Students from Cascade Middle School visited the University of Washington’s Basketball Training Facility for an IGNITE Field Trip hosted by Mortenson and partners. The event offered students an exciting behind-the-scenes look at a live construction site and introduced them to the many career opportunities within the architecture, engineering, and construction industries.
Students began their visit with a guided tour of the construction site, led by a team of professionals from Mortenson, UW, Gensler, and Holmes. They explored different areas of the facility and learned about the phases of construction and the wide range of roles that bring a project like this to life. The hands-on nature of the tour and the opportunity to see real equipment and materials sparked curiosity and helped students make tangible connections between STEM education and real-world careers.
The students then participated in an interactive presentation and a brief panel discussion with women engineers and construction professionals. Panelists shared what inspired them to pursue careers in the field and gave personal insight into the challenges and rewards of their work. Their stories emphasized that there’s no one right way to enter the industry and that curiosity, resilience, and collaboration are key.
A major highlight for many students came during lunch and movement time at UW’s Touchdown Terrace. After eating pizza and snacks, students got to stretch, run around on the football field, and unwind. This active break added a fun, memorable element to the day and helped reinforce the idea that learning and exploration can—and should—be fun.
The event stayed right on schedule and was well-organized from start to finish, thanks to a dedicated team of volunteers, including Ava W, Jennifer Kim, Tess M, Vy D, Melanie OrtizMuzquiz, Tamara Hartner, Roshan Alex, Sydney Thiel, Mark Stauning, Carmen Scraper, and Emily Carlip. Melanie and Vy also provided language support to ensure accessibility for all students.
The students left the Field Trip with swag bags, new knowledge about STEM and construction careers, and a positive, energizing experience that helped them envision what’s possible in their futures. Mortenson’s team expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to host the group and is already looking forward to future events with IGNITE.
“Today’s event inspired me by showing how many jobs are connected to STEM. My favorite thing I learned was the construction process.”
8th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me to think about becoming a construction worker. I liked it when we learned about the field and got to walk on it.”
6th Grade IGNITE Student
“It helped me feel more hopeful about my future. I learned what people do in construction.”
7th Grade IGNITE Student
“I learned how fun it is to be part of a construction team. I liked learning how the sun-blocking structures work.”
7th Grade IGNITE Student
“I saw how each STEM career has its own strengths and how the roles work together. My favorite thing was the tour and seeing buildings before they’re finished.”
7th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me because the workers talked about and showed how much they enjoy their jobs. I loved getting onto the field and meeting them.”
7th Grade IGNITE Student
STUDENTS SURVEYED FOLLOWING PARTICIPATION IN THIS EVENT REPORTED...
62%
INTERESTED IN STEM
67%
KNOW MORE ABOUT STEM CAREERS & THE BENEFITS OF WORKING IN STEM
63%
GAINED PERSPECTIVE & FEEL MORE HOPEFUL ABOUT THE FUTURE
Additional Student Feedback:
“Very nice! I liked it, and it inspired me to explore STEM more.” – 7th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me because it showed me how everything works. It’s not as easy as it seems—it takes time and patience.” – 7th Grade IGNITE Student
“It was fun! I got to learn about how buildings are made and see the construction in progress. The field was so big!” – 6th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me to look into STEM more—and also inspired me to play college sports!” – 8th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me to believe you can do anything if you focus your mind on it.” – 6th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today gave me hope for my future. My favorite part was seeing what the construction workers are building.” – 7th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me to be more interested in STEM. It was fun and enjoyable! My favorite part was the tour.” – 7th Grade IGNITE Student
Thank you to our IGNITE Volunteers and Educators:
- Ava W
- Jennifer Kim
- Tess M
- Jennifer Kim
- Vy D
- Melanie OrtizMuzquiz
- Tamara Hartner
- Sydney Thiel
- Mark Stauning
- Carmen Scraper
- Emily Carlip
- Roshan Alex
- Nadia Counter
About IGNITE Worldwide:
IGNITE Worldwide is a 501(c)3 nonprofit STEM education organization that aims to change gender and racial equity in STEM permanently and systematically. We work directly with teachers during the school day to provide programming that promotes gender equity and representation in STEM academics and careers. Through our award-winning program, IGNITE provides engaging, hands-on events that connect students with STEM professionals from industry leaders from around the world. Learn more at igniteworldwide.org.