Corliss High School students engaged in documenting the Red Line Extension construction using drones.
Three students from Corliss Early College STEM High School will participate in an internship program focusing on the construction of the 5.5-mile Red Line Extension. The program, a collaboration among the Chicago Transit Authority, Chicago Public Schools, and REDefine Southside Partners Joint Venture, allows these licensed drone pilots to document construction activities. The initiative not only provides valuable hands-on experience but also enhances community involvement and educational opportunities related to urban infrastructure development.
Three students from Corliss Early College STEM High School have the unique opportunity to document the construction of the 5.5-mile Red Line Extension (RLE) project as part of an internship program. This initiative, in collaboration with the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) and its construction management contractor, REDefine Southside Partners Joint Venture (RSP-JV), allows the students to play a vital role in capturing the progress of a significant transportation project.
Among the aspiring professionals, two are set to graduate in 2025, while one is a rising senior. All three students are licensed commercial drone pilots, a skill they have developed through Corliss High School’s specialized drone certification program. This program equips them with the necessary skills to operate drones safely and effectively, preparing them for careers in various sectors, including construction and engineering.
During the internship, the students will work closely with engineers, construction managers, and planners. Their main task will be to capture drone footage that documents current site conditions and tracks changes throughout the construction phase. By engaging in this work, the students gain practical insights into the full scope of the project and enhance their understanding of the construction management process.
The internship aims not only to offer direct experience in construction but also to provide students with exposure to industry software, transportation infrastructure career pathways, and project management fundamentals. This hands-on experience is invaluable as it prepares these young individuals for future opportunities in an industry that is vital for community development and economic growth.
Nora Leerhsen, the CTA Acting President, emphasized that the CTA goes beyond being just a transportation service. The organization is committed to creating growth opportunities for the local community. This internship is a prime example of how the CTA collaborates with schools to foster skills and opportunities among students.
The collaboration between the Chicago Public Schools (CPS), CTA, and RSP-JV is a significant step toward enriching student education through public investment. CPS Interim Superintendent Macquline King highlighted that initiatives like this allow students to actively engage in shaping their communities’ futures. Such programs not only enhance learning but also bridge the gap between education and real-world applications.
Justin Elliott, the RSP-JV Deputy Construction Manager, conveyed enthusiasm about the program, focusing on the opportunity to educate students about construction management and engineering. This mentorship and support is crucial for students as they navigate their aspirations in the construction and transportation domains.
The CTA is set to continue this internship program each summer throughout the life of the RLE project, ensuring that more students can benefit from similar opportunities in the future. As for the Red Line Extension itself, it represents a significant investment of $3.6 billion aimed at enhancing public transit services in the city.
The proposed Red Line Extension will extend from the existing 95th Street Terminal to 130th Street. This project will create four fully accessible stations and a new rail yard, improving access to public transportation for residents of the Far South Side. The extension is expected to enhance the reliability of transit services, create economic opportunities, and better meet the needs of the local community.
Construction for the Red Line Extension is anticipated to begin in 2026, with a projected completion date by the end of 2030. This timeline reflects the city’s ongoing commitment to improving public infrastructure and expanding opportunities for its residents.
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