Rich Township High School District 227 is partnering with Pepper Construction and UJAMAA Construction on a paid summer internship opportunity exclusively for graduating RTHS seniors. The companies aim to bring on two interns in total for the 11-week program during summer 2027. The Construction Project Management Intern position pays $20 per hour and offers experience with construction teams in the Chicagoland area.
“Our students deserve opportunities to see how their interests and classroom learning can lead to meaningful careers,” said Dr. Johnnie Thomas, superintendent of Rich Township High School District 227. “This partnership with Pepper Construction and UJAMAA Construction gives graduating seniors a chance to earn a paycheck, learn alongside construction professionals and build confidence as they plan their next steps.”
Interns will gain experience in both field and office settings while learning alongside project managers and construction superintendents. Responsibilities may include processing project submittals, estimating material quantities, assisting with budgets and attending jobsite and owner meetings.
The program also includes training sessions, jobsite tours, safety instruction and an intern project competition that simulates the process of bidding for and winning work as a general contractor.
“Partnering with Rich Township gives us an opportunity to connect classroom learning with hands-on experience and introduce students to careers they may not have considered and help them see themselves in construction. Through this internship, our team, along with our partner UJAMAA Construction, will mentor students as they explore what a future in our industry could look like,” said Jay Ripsky, President, Pepper Construction.
The partnership reflects District 227’s commitment to connecting students with real-world learning experiences and career pathways beyond high school.