Madison Park Vocational students build skills, explore construction careers through Suffolk co-op program

Boston, MA Two Madison Park Technical Vocational High School students got a firsthand look at careers in construction, spending several months working alongside Suffolk team members and trade partners at Huntington Tower, one of the city’s active high-rise construction projects.

Through a co-op program launched by Suffolk in partnership with Madison Park, Steven Chicas, an electrical student, and Maranda Escalera, a carpentry student, were placed at Suffolk’s Huntington Tower project site from March through June.

Suffolk designed the co-op to give students structured, real-world experience in construction and a broader view of the many career paths available in the industry, from the skilled trades to project management, safety and field operations.

Working on-site every other week, Chicas and Escalera, both from Dorchester, completed training through Suffolk’s Learning Hub, shadowed electrical and carpentry professionals, participated in project meetings, assisted with site-related tasks and engaged with field office staff. The experience also introduced students to Suffolk’s innovation-forward approach to building, including leveraging advanced technology, AI and planning tools to deliver complex projects safely and on time.

“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.”

For Suffolk and Madison Park, the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to expanding access to opportunity, strengthening career pathways for Boston students and building a more diverse construction workforce. Suffolk recognized Chicas and Escalera during a June 11 closing ceremony at its headquarters, where the students reflected on their experience, shared lessons learned from the Huntington Tower team and received certificates marking completion of their program.