Learn from professionals and build architecture skills in our free monthly workshops. Open to students in grades 9-12, with the option to join single sessions or explore all offerings.
Teen Saturday Studios offers free 3-hour workshops for high school students (grades 9-12) who are interested in exploring the worlds of architecture, construction, engineering and design. Themed sessions are supported by professionals, offering hands-on opportunities to build skills alongside experts in the field.
Locations and additional details are noted in the individual session descriptions below.
Schedule & Registration
Workshops take place on two Saturdays every month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. unless otherwise noted.
Registration for each session opens monthly. Participants enroll by individual session but are encouraged to return throughout the year.
Stained Glass
In this unique workshop, teens will explore the intersection of art, architecture and craftsmanship through the creation of stained glass designs.
Participants will learn about the history, materials and techniques involved in creating stained glass windows and how this medium has been used to express both beauty and meaning in architectural spaces. Teens will visit the Chicago Pedway to observe stained glass works of art and then get to create their own!
Details
- Date: Saturday, December 20
- Duration: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
- Location: Chicago Architecture Center 111 E Wacker Dr. Chicago IL, 60601
- Cost: FREE; advance registration required
Registration now open
Construction Management 101
Learn the basics of construction project management with an industry professional! This workshop will cover project lifecycle, budgeting, scheduling and the digital tools that help get the job done. Our expert will also lead simulations to develop leadership skills that teens can use both on and off the work site.
Details
- Date: Saturday, December 20
- Duration: 11a.m. - 2 p.m.
- Location: Dawson Technical Institute, 3901 S State St, Chicago, IL 60609
- Cost: FREE; advance registration required
Registration now open
Planning a City
Learn about the key issues in urban planning through real-world examples, problem-solving challenges and discussions. Participants will gain an understanding of how cities shape our lives over time and how they can contribute to building more inclusive, resilient and future-ready communities.
Details
- Date: Saturday, September 19
- Duration: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
- Location: Harold Washington College, 30 E Lake St, Chicago, IL 60601
- Cost: FREE; advance registration required.
Constructing Cities
Building a city takes many different professionals working together to make sure design, construction and government plans align. This interactive workshop connects urban planning and construction, giving teens the chance to explore how plans and policies shape development projects through hands-on scenarios and simulations inspired by real-world construction challenges.
Details
- Date: Saturday, September 26
- Duration: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
- Location: Revolution Workshop, 3410 W Lake St, Chicago IL 60624
- Cost: FREE; advance registration required.
Concrete Creations
This hands-on workshop introduces teens to the trade behind many of the structures and spaces we use every day. Participants will learn how cement masons build everything from sidewalks to structures, and will create their own cement art project to take home.
Details
- Date: Saturday, October 24
- Duration: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
- Location: Revolution Workshop, 120 E 111th St, Chicago IL 60628
- Cost: FREE; advance registration required.
REGISTRATIONS OPEN SOON
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Introduction to Carpentry
In this hands-on workshop, participants will receive a crash course in basic carpentry techniques including measuring, cutting, tool safety and blueprint reading from a skilled instructor and then complete a small take-home project.
If you’re interested in a career in construction or just enjoy working with your hands, this workshop is for you!
Details
- Date: TBD (originally scheduled for January 24)
Support
If you find our programs valuable, please consider donating to the CAC to help cover some or all of a program fee.
CAC's Teen Saturday Studio program is a part of the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Youth Learning Programs.
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