Camp buildHER

buildHER was created to introduce girls and gender expansive youth to career opportunities in architecture, engineering, and construction — industries that many students are never exposed to during their school years.

While the built environment surrounds us every day, few young women are encouraged to explore the careers responsible for designing and constructing it. buildHER was founded to help change that.

Mission

buildHER empowers girls and gender expansive youth in grades 7th-12th to explore careers in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) through hands-on experiences, industry mentorship, and real-world exposure to the people who design and build our communities.

They believe that when girls are given the opportunity to work with tools, while learning and connecting with industry professionals, they begin to see new possibilities for their futures.

Vision

A future where the architecture, engineering, and construction industries reflect the talent, perspectives, and leadership of the communities they serve.

Programs

Inspiring the next generation of builders.

buildHER offers a range of programs designed to introduce girls to careers in the built environment through hands-on learning and industry engagement.

Camp buildHER | Their flagship multi-day summer camp in Kent, introducing middle and high school girls to careers in the AEC industry. Campers participate in hands-on activities led by industry professionals, exploring construction skills, architecture, project management, and the many roles involved in building our communities. Through collaborative projects and problem-solving, participants gain insight into the wide range of careers across the AEC industry.

buildHER North | This one-day regional camp event expands their programs to students in Northern Washington communities and introduces them to careers in AEC through interactive activities and industry engagement. The program increases access to career exploration opportunities while strengthening partnerships with regional industry leaders.

Exploration Days | These events allow students to experience specific trades through focused, hands-on activities. Hosted in partnership with union training centers, these events provide access to facilities where students can participate in tool demonstrations, skill labs, and guided tours to see how trades professionals train and work.

Jobsite Tours | They give the students the opportunity to visit active construction projects and see how buildings and infrastructure come together. Students meet professionals across multiple roles and learn how teams collaborate to move projects from design to completion.

Volunteer Build Days | buildHER believes in bringing students and community members together to contribute to meaningful building projects. Working alongside industry mentors, participants gain practical experience while supporting projects that benefit their communities.