VHB has teamed up with Davies Technical & Career High School in Lincoln, Rhode Island to support the introduction of an Environmental Engineering track in the school’s Pre-Engineering Technology program, which also includes Mechanical & Robotic Engineering and Electronics Engineering. With environmental sustainability and renewable energy becoming increasingly vital considerations in the built environment, this program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in these growing industries.
Three VHBers in Providence—Rhode Island Managing Director Justin Dufresne, Rhode Island Environmental Director Luke Boucher and Senior Ecologist Scott Hobson—have been instrumental in aiding the program’s development, collaborating closely with Kelly Melendez Loaiza, a dedicated pre-engineering teacher at Davies. Their efforts focused on assisting Kelly in shaping a comprehensive curriculum that resonates with current industry standards. Additionally, VHB supported the development of the recently adopted Rhode Island State Career and Technical Education Standard for the field of Environmental Engineering, which will ultimately guide the curriculum at the high school level in the field.
Launching in Fall 2025, the Environmental Engineering track offers students early exposure to real-world engineering projects, preparing them for career readiness and collegiate success in fields crucial to sustainable development. This venture represents a transformative opportunity for students to engage with and contribute to solving issues in Rhode Island, as well as regional, national, and global challenges.
Beyond benefiting students, this program strengthens the local community by fostering a workforce that will be equipped to handle the environmental demands of tomorrow. Whether they complete the program and enter the workforce directly from high school or after attending college, these students will contribute to a positive, sustainable impact on the region’s economic and ecological landscape. If they decide to continue their learning in college, they’ll already be well-prepared for the curriculum.
For the engineering industry, this initiative addresses an urgent need for talented individuals dedicated to designing a sustainable future. By nurturing young talent, VHB and Davies are paving the way for a deeper community awareness and understanding of current environmental challenges and innovative solutions that the industry critically needs.
“Luke, Scott and I were excited to collaborate with Kelly and Davies on this program because its benefits align with so many of our goals at VHB,” remarked Justin. “Cultivating a new generation of environmentally conscious engineers helps consultants like us recruit the talent needed to meet demand for sustainable infrastructure. And, introducing STEM-related career pathways early on helps kids dream big and start planning how to gain the skills and experience to catapult them into exciting, rewarding careers in the engineering field.”
As VHB looks forward to continuing its support, the partnership with Davies Career and Technical High School signifies a profound investment in the future—empowering students, enriching the community, and enhancing the engineering field with skilled, passionate professionals.
For more information about the Pre-Engineering Technology program and the new Environmental Engineering track, visit Davies Technical & Career High School's website.
