Volunteer Work Fuels Career Path in Construction Management

News Summary

Esther Sadiki, a senior at Eastern Kentucky University, has shaped her career in construction management through volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity. Her experiences confirmed her passion for the field, leading to her enrollment in EKU’s program which focuses on practical training and real-world experience. With strong internship opportunities and high job placement rates, Sadiki represents the potential and ambition within the construction management program, ensuring a bright future for herself and others in the industry.

Volunteer Work Leads to Career Decision in Construction Management

Esther Sadiki, a senior at Eastern Kentucky University (EKU), has forged a path in the construction management industry thanks to her engaging volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity. Her hands-on experience not only confirmed her interest in the field but also catalyzed her enrollment in EKU’s Construction Management program, which emphasizes practical training and prepares students for successful careers.

Passion for Hands-On Work

During her volunteer experiences, Sadiki discovered her enthusiasm for hands-on projects, prompting her to formally study in the field. The Construction Management program at EKU is designed to furnish students with critical skills such as reading blueprints and managing multimillion-dollar job sites, making it an ideal choice for those aspiring to enter the construction sector.

Focus on Real-World Experience

EKU’s Construction Management curriculum places strong emphasis on real-world experience, ensuring that students not only gain theoretical knowledge but also acquire practical skills that enhance their employability. The program includes extensive training in safety certifications, such as OSHA-30, which underscores the importance of workplace safety and hazard prevention. This approach is structured to produce graduates who are workforce-ready and equipped with relevant industry certifications.

Impact on Regional Infrastructure

Notably, EKU’s Construction Management program has a significant impact on shaping regional and state infrastructure, as highlighted by university officials. As the demand for construction managers is projected to increase by 9% through 2033 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, pursuing a career in this field could be highly lucrative, with potential earnings exceeding $100,000 annually.

Leadership and Networking Opportunities

In addition, Sadiki has taken an active role as the president of the Student Contractors Association (SCA), where she plays a crucial part in guiding her peers through internship and co-op opportunities. Her initiative has led to the organization of multiple volunteer events with Gray Construction that connect students to hands-on experiences, broadening their understanding of the construction industry.

Internship Experience

Through the SCA, Sadiki was able to secure her current internship as a field management intern with Gray Construction. Her internship journey began with a jobsite tour during her first construction management class at EKU, and she has since completed internships with Dean Builds in Lexington and Siemens in Louisville. These experiences have not only provided her with valuable industry knowledge but have also helped her build the confidence necessary to succeed in the field.

Certification and Job Placement Rates

As Sadiki prepares to graduate in December, she is also studying for the Certified Associate Constructor (CAC) exam, which is set to validate her skills in construction project management and implementation. The program’s associates highlight an impressive 99% job placement rate for construction management graduates within three months of graduation, showcasing the high demand for skilled professionals in the field.

A Bright Future

With her extensive volunteer work, leadership in the SCA, and a robust range of internship experiences, Sadiki exemplifies the potential within EKU’s Construction Management program. As she takes further steps toward her professional career, she embodies the strong qualifications and ambitious spirit that the program aims to instill in all its students, ensuring a promising future for her and many others in the construction sector.

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Additional Resources

• Lane Report: EKU Lays Foundation for Careers in Construction Management
• Fox 56 News: EKU Responds to Growing Student Population with Renovation and Innovation
• Eastern Progress: From Venezuela to Richmond, Bolivar’s Journey
• Richmond Register: Madison County Schools Start Back with Great Things on the Horizon
• Bechtel: Kentucky Plant Begins Destroying GB Nerve Agent Rockets
• Wikipedia: Construction Management
• Google Search: Construction Management Careers
• Google Scholar: Construction Management Program
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Construction Management
• Google News: Educational Programs in Construction Management