CM Students Explore Professional Opportunities

Exploring is nothing new for EKU's Construction Management students. Every semester, faculty arrange a number of activities to enhance classroom learning. Dr. Charlie Zhang, CM Assistant Professor explains, "Hands-on construction experience is critical to students. We want our students to learn construction from real projects - get their hands dirty, see construction equipment in the real world and talk with the trades personally."

On campus (pictured above), CM students visited the new Case Dining Hall before it opens to the public. Senor Logan Carpenter interns with the general contractor, Rycon construction, and shared insights during the tour. Carpenter's internship experience has included participating with the project manager in the final  phase of the construction. Case dining hall is slated for completion by December 11 and is scheduled to open to students in spring 2018.

Senior Vivian Sowder is also interning this semester but with Classic Drywall, LLC - a local leader in drywall, construction and insulation. Classic Drywall provides a comprehensive array of services for construction-related projects.

CM alumnus, T.J. Hood ('90), was pleased to engage current students with a tour of his facility (pictured at the left). Hood is project manager for Tru by Hilton in Richmond. The company is building a four-story, 98-unit structure near I-75 exit 87. Tru is a unique and new hotel experience from Hilton designed to be vibrant, affordable and young-at-heart as well as energetic, yet relaxing and comfortable.

Zhang goes on to say that it is very important to let students realize why safety is a top priority in construction, "They will try on safety harnesses, attend safety meetings, and learn OSHA regulations."

Equally important is the opportunity to network and meet professionals in the field. Zhang said, "They had a chance to submit their resume to companies, interview with them, and get jobs." The hard work is well worth the effort. EKU's Construction Management program boasts a nearly 100 percent employment rate upon graduation and demand for graduates is high.

Find out more about EKU's Construction Management program at http://construction-management.eku.edu

Published on November 02, 2017