Boston, MA — Two Madison Park Technical Vocational High School students spent several months this spring working alongside Suffolk team members and trade partners at Huntington Tower, one of Boston’s active high-rise construction projects, through a co-op program the company launched with the school.
Steven Chicas, an electrical student, and Maranda Escalera, a carpentry student, both of Dorchester, worked on-site every other week from March through June. They completed training through Suffolk’s Learning Hub, shadowed electrical and carpentry professionals, sat in on project meetings, assisted with site-related tasks, and worked alongside field office staff, including exposure to the technology and AI-driven planning tools Suffolk uses to manage its projects.
“Everyone on the team was welcoming and made an effort to help us learn and gain real experience,” said Chicas. “I saw how the Huntington Tower project team collaborated, worked through challenges and coordinated with the trades to keep the project moving efficiently.”
“Before this co-op, I already knew I was interested in becoming a carpenter or pursuing a career in construction,” Escalera said. “But after seeing what it is like to work on an active construction site, I became even more passionate about that path. This opportunity allowed me to sit in professional meetings, meet new mentors and gain knowledge I would not have had until much later in my career. I am truly thankful for the experience.”
Suffolk recognized Chicas and Escalera at a June 11 closing ceremony at its headquarters, where the students reflected on the experience and received certificates marking completion of the program.
