Meet the Board

  • Anastasia Dubnicay

    ACE BOARD CHAIR

    Director of Projects and Planning

    University of Pittsburgh

    “The ACE Mentor Program is an amazing opportunity for students to get a taste of our industry and understand the breadth of what they can do with a background in Architecture, Engineering and Construction before they dive in and make that commitment after high school. As a mentor, it gives you a chance to meet these shining stars as high schoolers and then have the possibility of working with them as peers in the future.”

  • Michelle Wesolowski

    ACE BOARD VICE CHAIR

    Vice President

    American Global

    “I have seen firsthand the challenges facing the construction industry, particularly the growing labor shortage. Through my work with construction companies, I recognize the urgent need to develop future architects, engineers, construction professionals, and skilled tradespeople. Coming from a background where these career paths weren’t always visible, I believe mentorship and hands-on learning are essential to inspiring students to explore careers in construction. By connecting high school students with industry professionals, real-world projects, and scholarships, ACE fosters education, innovation, and diversity. I’m proud to support an organization shaping the industry’s future”

  • Ron Cortes

    ACE BOARD SECRETARY

    Vice President, Buildings
    Mascaro Construction Company

    “The importance of ACE is providing high school students with a glimpse into the construction industry through the dedication of our mentors, with the hope of attracting more young people into our industry in such a competitive marketplace.”

  • Nicole Shook, CPA

    ACE BOARD TREASURER

    Director
    CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP

    “As treasurer of the ACE Program, I have been able to help provide financial oversight to ensure the financial well-being of our organization so that we are able to continue to provide the students with a valuable experience during their time in the program which ultimately benefits our entire construction, engineering and architectural industries.”

  • Bethany Yoder, AIA, Well AP

    Associate
    Perkins Eastman

    “In high school, I attended a similar after-school program that guided me towards the career I have today and influenced me to become a mentor. The ACE Mentorship and Scholarship Program provides invaluable experiences and connections for students as they look to the future. As professionals, mentoring the next generation is key to continued growth of the AEC industry.”

  • Michael Barnard, PE

    Vice President

    Oxford Development Company

    “The ACE Mentor program provides benefits for both the businesses as well as the diverse group of local students whom we serve.  By engaging students who might not otherwise have an opportunity to gain experience with the wide variety of careers available in our industry, we provide access to outstanding opportunities for them while working to ensure the future of the Architecture, Construction and Engineering workforce.” 

  • Adam Majcher

    Operations Manager
    PJ Dick Incorporated

    “I believe strongly in The ACE Mentor Program's mutually beneficial mission, helping young adults explore and pursue rewarding careers in the architecture, engineering, and construction professions while ensuring our industry continues to attract the best and brightest talent for the future.”

  • Neal Rivers

    Vice President
    Easley & Rivers, Inc.

    “The ACE Mentor Program is a truly unique student experience; one where students with an interest in the fields of architecture, engineering and construction are afforded the opportunity to work with and learn from the professionals in their region.”

  • John T. Sebastian, LEED AP

    McKamish Director of Construction Management Program
    Swanson School of Engineering
    University of Pittsburgh

    “The ACE Mentor Program provides students with a valuable real-world experience and insight into the professions of Architecture, Construction and Engineering enabling them to be better prepared to make important educational and career choices.”

  • Tom Bender

    Council Representative
    Eastern Atlantic Regional Council of Carpenters

    “ACE Mentoring has the ability to reach students that will excel in the fields of Architecture, Construction, and Engineering.  This program is is equally advantageous for all students, including those that have, and those that have not realized those fields exist or their potential within them.”

  • Dave Daquelente

    Executive Director

    Master Builders’ Association of Western PA

  • John Wattick

    Vice President of Preconstruction

    Mosites Construction Company

  • Valerie Poutous

    Architect

    Gensler

    ACE mentorship provides an opportunity for students to jump start their career and learn about the architecture, engineering, and construction industry. Students receive invaluable mentorship from practicing professionals, and create lasting relationships.”

  • Michael Sweterlitsch

    Architect

    Rothschild Doyno Collaborative

    “I personally owe the ACE Mentor Program of Western PA for encouraging me to become an architect and ensuring me that architecture was the right fit for me. The opportunity to explore AEC careers alongside professionals in the industry allows students to make an informed decision about their future before making a commitment. Taking the time to connect with students at such a pivotal time in their education can have a significant impact on the path that a student takes. Our goal is to make sure students can feel confident in their final decision and to provide a network of support they can rely on as they start their journey into the world of architecture, construction and engineering.


  • Matthew Dilla

    Senior Electrical Engineer

    Lighthouse Electric