News

Construction students among finalists in national ABC Competition

goersab — Wed, 20 May 2026 13:07:53 +0000

Construction students among finalists in national ABC Competitiongoersab May 20, 2026

Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City project gives glimpse into real world construction management

�� construction management students competed against the nation ��. top students during Associated Builders and Contractors’ hallmark annual event, the Construction Management Competition, held this spring in Salt Lake City, Utah.

The ABC competition gives students a glimpse into the real world of construction, testing their project management, estimating, safety, quality control and presentation skills. This year ��. project was the Salt Lake City Convention Center ��. Hyatt Regency Hotel – a nearly 700,000-square-foot venue located in the heart of downtown.

Senior Lecturer Jim Bunkelman, Riley Hibner, Megan Schatz, Ian Farrell, Anna Odisho, Rep. Clint Moses and Sen. Jesse James in �� . Construction Lab.

“The construction industry needs to bring in 349,000 new workers this year just to meet demand, and that includes experienced young construction management professionals like these because they can solve real-world problems so contractors can build quality infrastructure,” said ABC National Board of Directors Chair Thomas “Murph” Murphy.

Of the 31 national teams, �� was among the final nine invited to present in the third phase of the competition, which included a presentation and Q&A with a panel of 40 industry experts.

�� . ABC team members were:

Evan Ambourn, of Eau Claire
Rorie Boettcher, of Eau Claire
Ian Farrell, of Waukesha
Riley Hibner, of Portage
Kameron Konsela, of Minneapolis
Sarah Meyers, of Plover
Anna Odisho, of Roselle, Illinois
Megan Schatz, of Brookfield

“Acting like our own contracting company, the ABC competition gave us a real-life project, where we could work as a group to build a proposal that a true industry company would create – from breaking ground to completion,” said Schatz, the team lead.

“This team demonstrated exceptional dedication and skills from day one. They took a complex project and vision, executing it with precision and professionalism. I have no doubt that the skills they’ve honed during this project will serve them incredibly well in their upcoming professional careers,” said Senior Lecturer James Bunkelman.

Sarah Meyers, Rorie Boettcher, Kameron Konsela, Megan Schatz, Ian Farrell and Evan Ambourn at the ABC Student Competition / Megan Schatz

Recently, the team was presented with a proclamation on behalf of the Wisconsin State Legislature by Sen. Jesse James and Rep. Clint Moses, a �� psychology alum. They were joined by John Schulze, ABC Wisconsin Director of Legal and Government Affairs, and Bunkelman.

“We appreciate �� students’ engagement and their achievements. They were up against some very big schools, and they held their own,” Schulze said. Competing universities included Clemson, Purdue and Michigan State. Louisiana State University won first place.

A project to reimagine a city skyline

The Hyatt Regency Salt Lake is a 25-story hotel, with 517 guestrooms, more than 60,000 square feet of meeting space, a lobby and reception area, a fitness center, multiple restaurants, a market, an outdoor pool, an event terrace and underground parking. The glass façade helps shape the city ��. skyline.

The ABC student teams were provided access to the project by ABC member contractor Hensel Phelps, which has already completed the project.

�� "Stout Builders" ABC Competition Top Performers title slide / Megan Schatz

The first phase of the competition was to research and prepare a proposal. The process took two-and-a-half months, and �� . final proposal was 120 pages long. Logistics was the biggest challenge, with Odisho handling much of the research.

“Since our project was in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City, there was not a lot of room for a project trailer, let alone a laydown of space for all the materials. The convention center also needed to be fully operational during the duration of the construction. So, safety was a large factor, as we’d be hoisting large pieces of steel and other material. It is also on the corner of two busy roads, so we had to time deliveries and plan what lanes of traffic we could change during construction,” said Schatz, who serves as vice president of the Student Construction Association, as well as director of public relations for Sigma Lambda Chi, the construction honors society.

For the project ��. second phase, the 31 teams convened at Salt Lake City Convention Center for a six-hour-long day, where they were given five addenda and changes they needed to incorporate into their proposals. The addenda reflected both fictional and actual events that happened during the construction of the hotel.

“Some of the addenda we were given were: a build-out of the restaurant on the sixth floor, the final build-out of the top five floors for the NBA All-Star Game, adding balancing water valves that were missed originally, and an earthquake that hit Salt Lake City,” Schatz said.

Ian Farrell, Evan Ambourn, Megan Schatz and Sarah Meyers present during phase three of the ABC Student Competition / Megan Schatz

Phase three was the final presentation, in which the �� ABC Team was one of nine finalists. “Presenting in front of the judges and audience was such an accomplishment. I’m incredibly grateful to have been able to complete this project with such a dedicated and committed team. We learned not only more about the industry but also grew as a team and had a fun time doing it,” Schatz said.

Graduates from �� . B.S. construction management program reported a 100% employment rate within six months of graduation and an average starting salary of $70,000, according to the latest university First Destination Report.

�� . School of Management offers 20 undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificates that build students' leadership skills in operations and management, business, hospitality and technology innovation, and military science fields.

Construction Management

All Construction Management News

Construction students among finalists in national ABC Competition

Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City project gives glimpse into real world construction management

May 20, 2026

Xcel Energy Cedar Falls Hydro project supports construction students’ industry experiences

Collaboration encourages students to consider impacts of infrastructure on greater community

May 12, 2026

�� forms partnership with Alquist to adopt industry-leading 3D concrete printing technology

University among first in Midwest to integrate concrete printing into polytechnic programs

March 10, 2026

Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City project gives glimpse into real world construction management ABC Construction competition team, 2026

University Marketing

B.S. Construction Management

Our B.S. Construction Management will help you develop expertise in technical construction and engineering processes, business management, and marketing.

Learn More

Hero Caption: This year ��. ABC Competition project was the Salt Lake City Convention Center ��. Hyatt Regency Hotel – a nearly 700,000-square-foot venue located in the heart of downtown.

James Bunkelman

Full Name: James Bunkelman

Job Title: Lecturer

Include in Directory: Yes

College: College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Management

Department: Operations & Management Department

Program

All Degree Programs

Curriculum Vitae: James Bunkelman CV (253.87 KB)

Education:

Degree: M.S. Construction Management

University: University of Wisconsin Stout

Degree: B.S. Construction Management

University: University of Wisconsin-Stout

CSTEMM

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Include in Directory: Off

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Xcel Energy Cedar Falls Hydro project supports construction students’ industry experiences

goersab — Tue, 12 May 2026 15:00:00 +0000

Xcel Energy Cedar Falls Hydro project supports construction students’ industry experiencesgoersab May 12, 2026

Collaboration encourages students to consider impacts of infrastructure on greater community

Abbey Goers

Donning hard hats and safety vests, construction management and risk control students from �� recently stood at the base of the Cedar Falls Hydroelectric plant and peered up at the 60-foot-tall dam that creates the 1,800-acre Tainter Lake, north of Menomonie.

Cedar Falls Hydro is one of 19 hydroelectric facilities in Wisconsin operated by Xcel Energy, with a total generating capacity of about 272 megawatts of renewable and carbon-free electricity.

Xcel Energy is in the midst of a multi-year, $50 million+ project designed to improve the safety and increase spillway capacity of the Cedar Falls Hydro Dam. The phased upgrade first involves upgrades to the spillway, including tie-back anchors and mass concrete infill work. Future phases involve installing upstream cofferdams to install new spillway gates and constructing a downstream stilling basin to help reduce erosion of the riverbed at the dam.

Students in the Heavy Construction Methods & Equipment class, led by Assistant Professor Janelle Skoyen Hestekin and Lecturer John Beckfield, visited the site to see Xcel Energy ��. project in operation and witness real-world applications surrounding the major community asset and capital project.

“Xcel Energy supports investment in educating the next generation of construction professionals by providing exposure to real-world construction projects and practical work experiences with �� students interested in the field of engineering, design and construction,” said Xcel Energy Project Manager Anthony Witkowski.

Prior to their visit, students worked together as a mock construction company to develop a broad-based construction plan for a mass concrete infill project, inspired by the Cedar Falls Hydro project. They presented their plan, which included materials, equipment, scheduling, staffing, permits, environmental quality, safety and job hazard analysis, and cost estimates to Witkowski and other Xcel Energy staff at the Cedar Falls site.

“It is clear the students put a significant amount of thought and preparation into their presentations in the areas of construction planning, construction safety, project scheduling and project cost estimating. I appreciated the clear written and verbal communication presented by the students,” Witkowski said.

Xcel Energy is an active member of �� . Construction Industry Advisory Committee, from which the collaboration and learning opportunity arose. Hestekin adapted her course structure to incorporate the project and guided students throughout the process.

The class project kicked off with a visit from Witkowski and Dean Steines, chief dam safety engineer – hydro operations, who introduced the project background and design goals to the students from the owner ��. perspective. They also met with Shane McFadden, CEO of Engineering & Construction Innovations, Inc. (ECI), the project's prime contractor, and ECI project staff to compare their planned approach to how ECI is actively completing the work.

“The project exposed students to the heavy civil sector of construction work, where new talent is needed to grow the workforce. A sincere thank you to Xcel Energy for offering this opportunity to the students,” said Hestekin, who is looking forward to additional opportunities for students to collaborate at the Cedar Falls site and other nearby facilities.

Students from Associate Professors Calvin Chen ��. Building Electrical and Control Systems class and Assistant Professor Ashely Der ��. Construction Safety / Risk Control class also visited the site to see the operations of the power distribution network to the nearby cities, and safety management procedures, such as hot work – welding, cutting, soldering, and other tasks that produce heat, sparks or flame – and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), a safety procedure used to protect workers by preventing the unexpected energization or startup of machinery and equipment.

Presenting a complete construction plan

The Cedar Falls dam, constructed in 1910, is one of a few remaining Ambursen dams – hollow dams with open sections between the buttresses on the downstream side of the dam. It is the hollow sections that will be filled with mass concrete, which was the focus of the students’ presentation.

Their broad-based construction plan and estimate for a mass concrete infill project, presented to Xcel Energy as the owner, included staff wages, material and machinery costs, transportation of material, equipment and personnel, and overhead costs.

The students’ simulated work would consist of four separate concrete pours in each of the dam ��. 18 bays, with work beginning on Aug. 10 and completion on Nov. 12, taking into account rainfall, river flow and potential temperature-related concrete issues.

Their safety plan listed OSHA safety training requirements; the inspection of equipment, causeway, the local road and dam; and more.

Allie Hubbard, of Forest Lake, Minnesota, Ben Larson, of West Salem, and Blake Bargender, of Abbotsford, think the project was the most beneficial experience in the course, allowing them to visualize their classroom learning in a real-world setting.

“What stood out most was experiencing the project as if we were part of an actual company. I gained a better understanding of how important communication is across all team roles. I also learned the importance of maintaining strong relationships with subcontractors, since the construction industry is highly interconnected,” said Hubbard, who is also majoring in interior design.

Being able to visit the site and talk to the people actually working on the project gave Larson a new perspective and helped him see what the student group did well on their project and what they could have done better, Larson said.

Bargender plans to one day serve as a project manager for a commercial construction company. “This research project, presentation, and site visit significantly helped me prepare for my future career because it simulated a very realistic situation of estimating and planning in the role of a project manager,” he said.

Students contributing to the greater community

Xcel Energy ��. long-standing partnership with �� continues to grow in meaningful ways, said Community Relations Manager Tim Bartels. “We are pleased to connect students directly with real-world infrastructure and community assets. We’re especially proud that these collaborations support broader commitment to sustainability, giving students the opportunity to engage with projects that advance clean energy and the communities we serve,” he said.

Hubbard thinks that with industry partners and collaborators, like Xcel, that encourage hands-on learning, “Stout students can continue to make lasting impacts on community and environmental projects by applying what we learn in class to real-world situations. Projects like the hydro facility show how we can contribute to the greater community. I am most interested in the opportunity to contribute to how our world is built in the future and to make a lasting impact on the places people use every day,” she said.

Larson and Bargender agreed and added that students can also make an impact on community or environmental projects by getting involved with student organizations, like the Student Construction Association, Women in Construction, and Sigma Lambda Chi, and by volunteering or joining a construction competition team to gain real experience.

“The more you put in, the more you get out of it,” Larson said. “What I like most about my construction management major is how many opportunities it opens up. In our program, we are exposed to a little bit of everything. So, when we graduate, there are so many directions within the industry. I like that flexibility and the fact that the possibilities are pretty much endless.”

As a construction management and interior design double major, Hubbard enjoys being a part of the entire process “from the very beginning, meeting with clients, understanding their needs and wants, and then bringing their vision to life. It ��. especially rewarding to guide clients through the process and ultimately hand over the keys to a finished structure they can be excited about,” she said.

Xcel Energy provides the energy that powers millions of homes and businesses across eight Western and Midwestern states. Its spillway modernization project was approved by the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin in 2021, with the multi-year project beginning in 2022. The project is part of Xcel Energy ��. investment in a cleaner electric system, as it drives toward 100% carbon-free electricity by 2050.

Construction Management

All Construction Management News

Construction students among finalists in national ABC Competition

Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City project gives glimpse into real world construction management

May 20, 2026

Xcel Energy Cedar Falls Hydro project supports construction students’ industry experiences

Collaboration encourages students to consider impacts of infrastructure on greater community

May 12, 2026

�� forms partnership with Alquist to adopt industry-leading 3D concrete printing technology

University among first in Midwest to integrate concrete printing into polytechnic programs

March 10, 2026

Collaboration encourages students to consider impacts of infrastructure on greater community Construction management students at Xcel Energy's Cedar Halls Hydro Dam

University Marketing

B.S. Construction Management

Our B.S. Construction Management will help you develop expertise in technical construction and engineering processes, business management, and marketing.

Learn More

Janelle Skoyen Hestekin

Courses I've taught in the Construction Management program include AEC131 - Architectural Graphics, AEC273 - Concrete and Masonry Technology and AEC357 - Site Engineering.

Full Name: Janelle Skoyen Hestekin

Job Title: Assistant Professor

Include in Directory: Yes

College: College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Management

Department: Operations & Management Department

Program

All Degree Programs

B.S. Construction Management

Education:

Degree: M.S. Civil Engineering

University: Villanova University

Degree: B.S. Civil Engineering

University: University of Wisconsin-Platteville

CSTEMM

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Include in Directory: Off

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

�� forms partnership with Alquist to adopt industry-leading 3D concrete printing technology

giffeyt — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 20:00:00 +0000

�� forms partnership with Alquist to adopt industry-leading 3D concrete printing technologygiffeyt March 10, 2026

University among first in Midwest to integrate concrete printing into polytechnic programs

��, Wisconsin ��. ��, and Alquist, a pioneer in 3D concrete printing (3DCP) technology, are proud to announce a strategic partnership that brings Alquist ��. industry-leading, proprietary 3DCP printing systems and supporting curriculum to �� . campus.

This collaboration marks a significant step forward in applied learning and workforce development, positioning �� as one of the first universities in the Midwest to integrate 3DCP into its construction management, technology education, and industrial and product design academic programs. The relationship will help build the workforce infrastructure required to scale robotic construction nationwide.

“This partnership with Alquist aligns directly with our mission to deliver applied, career-ready education,” said �� Chancellor Katherine Frank. “By bringing 3DCP technology and curriculum to our students, we’re preparing them to lead in a rapidly evolving construction and manufacturing landscape.”

Alquist, which is based in Greeley, Colorado, is a leader in 3D concrete printing technology, offering scalable solutions for residential, commercial and infrastructure construction. Through its curriculum, licensing programs, and robotics systems, Alquist is transforming how communities build and grow.

The partnership includes:

Integration of Alquist ��. 60-hour 3DCP curriculum into �� . curriculum, designed to certify students in the operation and application of 3D concrete printing technology. The curriculum will also enhance �� . ability to offer continuing education opportunities for working professionals in aligned areas such as architecture, construction, engineering and industrial design.
Installation of Alquist ��. proprietary 3DCP print system within �� . construction lab, enabling students to gain real-world experience with robotic printing and sustainable construction materials.
Collaborative research and development focused on climate-specific concrete mixes and scalable additive manufacturing solutions for infrastructure and housing.

“As 3D construction printing moves from experimentation to national deployment, the workforce must evolve alongside it,” said Zachary Mannheimer, founder of Alquist. “We’re not just installing printers on campuses, we’re building a long-term talent pipeline that gives students direct access to the tools, software and real-world processes shaping the future of construction.”

The initiative will be housed within �� . Center for Advanced Manufacturing & AI (CAM-AI), which supports manufacturers and other businesses by leveraging the expertise of �� faculty and staff and the university ��. industry-standard laboratories and equipment.

“CAM-AI already provides additive manufacturing, advanced 3D printing technologies and AI to its external partners. The addition of Alquist ��. system will expand the lab ��. capabilities to include large-format concrete printing,” said Seth Hudson, executive director of Corporate Relations and Economic Engagement at ��.

Business & Industry Collaboration

All Business & Industry Collaboration News

Xcel Energy Cedar Falls Hydro project supports construction students’ industry experiences

Collaboration encourages students to consider impacts of infrastructure on greater community

May 12, 2026

Oshkosh Corporation will host Design Wisconsin, �� . annual event exploring innovative design

Professionals, students will gather May 29-30 for a showcase of the cultural and commercial impact of design

May 7, 2026

Canon selects �� for exclusive Explorers of Light program with award-winning cinematographer

Shana Hagan, ASC, has worked on everything from Oscar-winning documentaries to hit sitcoms

April 23, 2026

University among first in Midwest to integrate concrete printing into polytechnic programs alquist_3d_concrete_printing.jpg

University Marketing

Center for Advanced Manufacturing & Artificial Intelligence

Expert manufacturing guidance for industry and AI services designed for all businesses & organizations

Search Keywords: construction managementartificial intelligenceconcrete printing3D printing

Hero Caption: Workers inspect 3D printed concrete. / Photo courtesy Alquist

Seth Hudson

Seth Hudson was announced as the new leader on Thursday, July 28, by Chancellor Katherine Frank. He will direct �� . Discovery Center, including the Manufacturing Outreach Center, Stout Technology and Business Park, and a comprehensive range of industry, applied research, technical assistance and technology transfer efforts of the university.

Hudson has bachelor ��. degrees in political science and economics from the University of Southern Maine.

"I am looking forward to growing �� . existing partnerships in order to expand the relationships between students, faculty, staff and Wisconsin ��. business community,” he said.

Full Name: Seth Hudson

Job Title: Executive Director for Corporate Relations and Economic Engagement

Include in Directory: Yes

Area of Expertise: Industry Partnerships Economic Development

Department: Corporate Relations & Economic Engagement

Education:

Chancellor OCREE

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Include in Directory: Off

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Students collaborate across degrees in community project for The Neighbors

goersab — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 13:30:00 +0000

Students collaborate across degrees in community project for The Neighbors goersab November 20, 2025

Construction, interior design, technology education majors build garden products for senior living home residents

Abbey Goers

In a cross-disciplinary collaboration, four groups of students in Lecturer James Bunkelman ��. Light Construction Methods class are designing and building two raised garden beds, one raised tool bench and one raised tool holder for a senior living home.

The project is part of a service-learning activity, as their final products will be delivered to The Neighbors of Dunn County for the residents to use and enjoy in their garden.

The project was launched last summer during a new STEAM camp for high school students. The Blueprint for Success: Construction Career Camp, led by Assistant Professor Janelle Skoyen Hestekin, blended practical construction skills with community engagement, thanks to a partnership with Junior Achievement and The Neighbors.

Madelyn Pretzer, Tanner Schauf, Brandy Wolf and Erika Rivolta build a tool bench for The Neighbors

The high school students built prototypes of the garden beds and benches after meeting with The Neighbors residents to learn about their needs, laying the groundwork for the �� students’ projects.

When Bunkelman ��. university students took the project on, “I told them to have fun. I told them what they were to build, but not how to do it. They have free rein in their research, designs and building processes.”

A group of four students is completing an ADA-compliant raised tool bench, built with treated two-by-four pine boards and capable of holding 200 pounds, they estimate. The cross-disciplinary team is:

Madelyn Pretzer, interior design, of Rochester, Minnesota
Erika Rivolta, interior design, of Comerio, Italy
Tanner Schauf, technology education, of Sparta
Brandy Wolf, construction management, of Le Sueur, Minnesota

Brandy Wolf nails pine boards in place on the tool bench frame

Wolf enjoys smaller-scale construction projects and has experience in the building process. “Applying the skills we’ve learned in class to turn our design into reality for a client is very fulfilling,” she said.

The team believes it ��. extremely important to know a client ��. wants or needs before beginning a design. They designed the tool bench to be ADA compliant, considering the needs of The Neighbors residents. The height is designed so that a person in a wheelchair may sit at the bench comfortably.

Madelyn Pretzer cuts a two-by-four pine board on a band saw.

“We’re all bringing our own skills into the project,” Pretzer said. “Erika and I have design experience. Next semester, we have a Residential and Senior Living class. This project gives us an early perspective on senior living needs and their possible preferences.”

As a future teacher, Schauf believes collaboration and community involvement are essential. “For teachers, there ��. an expectation to be a pillar in the community,” he said. “I hope to connect my classroom with the programs like this at Stout through similar projects that bridge the gap between technology education and field experiences.”

Tanner Schauf cuts a two-by-four pine board on a band saw.

Social responsibility is a fundamental component of the Stout Core curriculum, a series of foundational classes that enhance students’ applied learning while building the soft skills in high demand by employers.

Construction Management

All Construction Management News

Construction students among finalists in national ABC Competition

Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City project gives glimpse into real world construction management

May 20, 2026

Xcel Energy Cedar Falls Hydro project supports construction students’ industry experiences

Collaboration encourages students to consider impacts of infrastructure on greater community

May 12, 2026

�� forms partnership with Alquist to adopt industry-leading 3D concrete printing technology

University among first in Midwest to integrate concrete printing into polytechnic programs

March 10, 2026

Construction, interior design, technology education majors build garden products for senior living home residents Light Construction Methods, The Neighbors project, tool bench

University Marketing

B.S. Construction Management

Our B.S. Construction Management will help you develop expertise in technical construction and engineering processes, business management, and marketing.

Learn More

Search Keywords: Construction management degreeservice learning

James Bunkelman

Full Name: James Bunkelman

Job Title: Lecturer

Include in Directory: Yes

College: College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Management

Department: Operations & Management Department

Program

All Degree Programs

Curriculum Vitae: James Bunkelman CV (253.87 KB)

Education:

Degree: M.S. Construction Management

University: University of Wisconsin Stout

Degree: B.S. Construction Management

University: University of Wisconsin-Stout

CSTEMM

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Janelle Skoyen Hestekin

Courses I've taught in the Construction Management program include AEC131 - Architectural Graphics, AEC273 - Concrete and Masonry Technology and AEC357 - Site Engineering.

Full Name: Janelle Skoyen Hestekin

Job Title: Assistant Professor

Include in Directory: Yes

College: College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Management

Department: Operations & Management Department

Program

All Degree Programs

B.S. Construction Management

Education:

Degree: M.S. Civil Engineering

University: Villanova University

Degree: B.S. Civil Engineering

University: University of Wisconsin-Platteville

CSTEMM

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Include in Directory: Off

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

�� completes $7.4M lab renovation, improving space for cutting-edge equipment and learning

giffeyt — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 14:00:00 +0000

�� completes $7.4M lab renovation, improving space for cutting-edge equipment and learninggiffeyt October 14, 2025

Changes to Jarvis Tech labs boost engineering, construction programs

Tom Giffey

The final phase of a $7.4 million renovation project has brought crucial upgrades to two of �� . biggest and busiest labs.

The revamp of the Construction Lab, the Woods Lab and adjacent portions of Jarvis Hall Technology Wing was completed over the summer, with the labs fully upgraded by the beginning of the fall semester.

Among the most visible changes are the addition of new windows and large overhead doors that open onto the well-traveled hallway between the labs, a frequent route for students and visitors alike passing through the connected Jarvis Science, Jarvis Tech, Micheels and the Applied Arts buildings.

“The Jarvis Tech renovations will significantly improve the functioning of some of the largest labs on the campus through upgrades in the HVAC system, increased visibility and access to the labs through the addition of roll-up doors and more efficient use of valuable space through reconfiguring lab layouts,” said Daniel Freedman, dean of the College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Management.

Windows to education: $7.4M labs renovation project sheds light on mechanical, plastics engineering

Two large engineering labs and one of the busiest building corridors at �� have fresh, new looks this fall with students back on camp

Phase 1 of the project was completed during the summer of 2024, and encompassed about 17,000 square feet of Jarvis Tech, including the Plastics Engineering Lab and the Engineering Technology Research and Development Lab. The recently completed Phase 2 included nearly 25,000 square feet. The two-phase project was funded as part of the 2021-23 state capital budget.

As Wisconsin ��. ��, �� emphasizes applied learning and provides three times more labs than classrooms. In many cases, as with the newly renovated labs, classroom and lab space are next to each other so that lectures and hands-on applications are seamlessly intertwined.

Chad Schlough, project manager for Facilities Management, said one of the major components of the latest renovation was replacing two air handling units, creating more efficiency and adding greater control. A new dust-collection system and three new exhaust fans in the Construction Lab, which is used extensively by students in the B.S. construction management program, also will improve air quality and environmental safety.

Both labs also received new paint, while in the Woods Lab worn-out parquet flooring made way for polished concrete. Other nearby rooms — including the Construction Conference Room — received upgrades such as new flooring, ceilings and paint.

Students collaborate in the newly renovated Woods Lab.

Other elements of the project included:

The completion of a sprinkler system that now encompasses the entire first floor of Jarvis Tech.

Upgrades to the fire alarm notification system.

Renovations to existing restrooms and the addition of a single-occupant restroom.

The addition of a secure store area for surveying equipment used in site engineering classes.

“This renovation is another step forward for �� . applied learning environment,” said Senior Facilities Officer Justin Utpadel. “The upgrades not only enhance safety and functionality but also increase the visibility and adaptability of our instructional spaces.”

New hallway windows, like these at the Plastics Engineering Lab, have been added to multiple labs in Jarvis Hall Technology Wing in the past two years.

The renovations also created space for two new pieces of state-of-the-art machinery purchased through other funding sources. A newly renovated room will house a $1 million Amatrol Smart Factory Enterprise system donated by the Ronald and Joyce Wanek Foundation. This fully integrated automated manufacturing system includes a manufacturing line composed of processes such as inventory control, inspection, sorting, assembly, testing, CNC machining and storage, all linked by ethernet or wireless communications. The system is designed to showcase how all these technologies are integrated in a modern production system and to educate students in how to build and maintain such systems.

Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation donation transforms labs with advanced manufacturing equipment

Machinery for automated manufacturing, 3D printing and more will impact thousands of students’ polytechnic experiences

This equipment, which will be installed in a room adjacent to the Woods Lab, was made possible by a $3.1 million donation from the Ronald and Joyce Wanek Foundation, which was announced in August. The Foundation was established by Ronald Wanek, founder and chairman of Ashley Furniture Industries, LLC, and his wife, Joyce. Their son, Todd Wanek, is a 1988 �� alum and president and CEO of the company.  

Similarly, the renovation made space in the Construction Lab for a 3D concrete printer that will be installed later this academic year. That device was purchased through a $647,000 grant from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. announced last spring for �� . Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Artificial Intelligence (CAM-AI).

�� welcomes more than 1,100 community members, area children for summer activities

Polytechnic experiences offered at hands-on STEAM camps, professional development workshops, Murals in Menomonie festival

June 1, 2026

Inspiring Graduates Share Their Stout Experiences

Celebrate our graduates as they cross the commencement stage and reflect on the journey that brought them here

May 21, 2026

Inspiring Graduate: Thomas Shamla, B.S. Mechanical Engineering

Hired before graduation at Absolut Manufacturing

May 21, 2026

Changes to Jarvis Tech labs boost engineering, construction programs Two students in Wood Lab

University Marketing

Hero Caption: Students work in the Woods Lab inside Jarvis Hall Technology Wing, one of two recently remodeled labs in the building.

Include in Directory: Off

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Solid success: Faculty, student project focuses on low-carbon concrete

giffeyt — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 14:51:26 +0000

Solid success: Faculty, student project focuses on low-carbon concretegiffeyt June 17, 2025

Environmentally friendly effort uses byproducts to create strong, sustainable concrete

Tom Giffey

An unassuming slab of grey concrete recently poured on the University of Wisconsin-Stout campus is much more than a sidewalk in front of a pair of bus shelters – it ��. an example of how engineering can lead the way to a more sustainable, lower-carbon future.

On a bright spring day the innovative concrete concoction was mixed, poured, shaped and finished by about a dozen members of the Student Construction Association under the expert eye of Associate Professor Kevin MacDonald, director of the B.S. construction management program. Now, as it continues to cure and harden, the concrete will be monitored for its strength and sustainability.

And considering that concrete – the most-used construction material in the world – is responsible for an estimated 8% of total global carbon emissions, creating it more sustainably is vital to the planet ��. future.

“This is a perfect example of why the polytechnic education works very well,” MacDonald said, reflecting on the project. “Because we’re not looking at making a single cylinder or maybe a paving stone of concrete. We’re looking at making a real sidewalk. We’re learning what are the implications, what are the problems that we encounter when we go to make it, and how can we solve them?”

MacDonald has decades of experience in the industry, working on projects as notable as replacing the Interstate 35W bridge in Minneapolis when he was vice president for engineering services at Twin Cities-based Cemstone. MacDonald has been working with low-carbon concrete for years, he said, but this is the first time he ��. used this particular recipe in ready-mix concrete trucks.

Student Jeremy O'Connor, top left, and Associate Professor Kevin MacDonald watch concrete pour from a ready-mix truck.

Associate Professor Kevin MacDonald

Moving from lab to sidewalk

The concrete project is the indirect result of upcoming renovations to Heritage Hall, which required the shifting of the bus shelters to a spot in front of the Robert S. Swanson Library & Learning Center. After learning about the proposed relocation, MacDonald knew it could become a learning opportunity for his students and a real-world test for one of his concrete recipes, which doesn’t use traditional portland cement – the manufacture of which is highly resource intensive.

A week before the big pour, MacDonald and a handful of students gathered in the construction lab inside the Jarvis Hall Technology Wing to test several cylindrical samples of concrete in a compression testing machine. As the pressure steadily increased to nearly 8,600 pounds per square inch, the samples cracked loudly and ultimately broke, shedding aggregate onto the ground below. After the tests, MacDonald scribbled calculations with one hand while typing numbers into a calculator app with the other.

Next, MacDonald led the students in preparing some of the chemicals needed to create the concrete, carefully pumping sodium carbonate – a caustic liquid used in drain cleaners – into a series of pails. The liquid would provide a critical ingredient the following week when the concrete was ultimately mixed, serving as a chemical activator to the primary ingredient, blast-furnace slag. This slag, a byproduct of steel production, was used as an ecologically friendly substitute for portland cement. Not only is the slag less resource-intensive because it ��. an industrial byproduct, MacDonald said, but it also creates a stronger final product, meaning less material is needed. Furthermore, because of its chemical properties, concrete made with slag instead of portland cement removes more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, making it not just carbon neutral but potentially carbon negative.

Joking that “the heaviest thing I lift up most days is a pen,” MacDonald knew that the Student Construction Association would be an ideal partner for the project. �� senior Jeremy O’Connor, the club ��. president, was one of more than a dozen students to help with the early morning concrete pour on April 29.

As other students stood by with concrete rakes and other equipment, O’Connor – clad in safety gear atop a scissor lift – carefully “dosed,” or poured, the liquid ingredients into the back of a Cemstone ready-mix truck. As the dark-grey material flowed out, the students worked quickly with their tools to ensure the concrete flowed evenly and smoothly into the 10-foot-by-50-foot form laid out for it. The concrete was placed in about three hours, then cured under plastic for two days. The concrete strength at two days was greater than the 20-year strength of a conventional sidewalk, MacDonald said.

�� construction management major Ellie Becker helped spread wet concrete during a campus project.

Student benefits from ‘world-class expertise’

O’Connor said the project was challenging not only because of the atypical mixture of ingredients but also because the mixture set much more quickly than typical concrete – about 75 minutes compared with two hours or more. “This made it extremely hard to finish because it set so quickly compared to the pace we were pouring at,” he said. In addition, strong sunlight and winds dried the surface of the concrete faster than expected.

Nonetheless, he added, “We were still able to finish the concrete successfully and complete the pour through adversity.”

O’Connor said it was an “amazing experience” to work with someone who has the depth of knowledge that MacDonald does. While he has world-class expertise, MacDonald is still able to provide jargon-free explanations that even people who aren’t in the construction field can understand, O’Connor said.

“I have worked with (MacDonald) in many classes and other projects, which has only increased my appreciation for the expansive wealth of knowledge he so generously shares,” O’Connor said.

O’Connor added the experience allowed him to practice all the steps of a construction project, from site utilization and speaking with owners to preparing estimates and creating a schedule. “By applying knowledge I have gained through the university, my professional experiences, my internships, and my competition teams, I am in a much better place following my completion of college because of the knowledge, expertise, and great experiences I have gained,” he said. “(The project) has also exposed me to this brand-new material, which I believe will be implemented in many projects in the future, as it will revolutionize the construction industry, help global warming, and make the world a better place.”

O’Connor graduated in May and in June began work as a field engineer with Gilbane Building Co. in Rochester, Minnesota.

A �� construction management student using a power screed to compact and level wet concrete.

Addressing climate change with engineering

The relocation of the bus shelters was made necessary by the upcoming renovation of Heritage Hall, which will begin in August, said Justin Utpadel, the university ��. senior facilities officer. The original site of the shelters was within the boundaries of the project, so university planners decided to move them down 10th Street East to a spot in front of the Robert S. Swanson Library & Learning Center. This provided a perfect on-campus construction opportunity for MacDonald and his students.

The project, Utpadel added, was a win for all parties, supporting not only the students’ education but also a major campus renovation project and the needs of bus riders.

Ultimately, the experience and data gathered from the concrete pour will also provide helpful in the concrete industry ��. ongoing efforts to become more environmentally sustainable. Just days after the concrete was poured, MacDonald noted, the Portland Cement Association, a century-old national group representing U.S. cement manufacturers, announced it was officially changing its name to the American Cement Association. It ��. one indication of the industry ��. ongoing shift to lower-emissions products that don’t contain portland cement.

“It ��. the biggest challenge in the concrete industry,” MacDonald said, referring to carbon emissions. “You can build buildings out of only concrete, but you can’t build buildings without it.”

He continued: “The climate change issue is an engineering problem we’re going to solve, and one of the ways we’re going to solve it is by reducing our emissions. That ��. what this material is meant to do.”

Construction Management

All Construction Management News

Construction students among finalists in national ABC Competition

Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City project gives glimpse into real world construction management

May 20, 2026

Xcel Energy Cedar Falls Hydro project supports construction students’ industry experiences

Collaboration encourages students to consider impacts of infrastructure on greater community

May 12, 2026

�� forms partnership with Alquist to adopt industry-leading 3D concrete printing technology

University among first in Midwest to integrate concrete printing into polytechnic programs

March 10, 2026

Environmentally friendly effort uses byproducts to create strong, sustainable concrete Students watch as a unique, lower-carbon cement mixture pours from a ready-mix truck on the �� campus.

University Marketing

B.S. Construction Management

Our B.S. Construction Management will help you develop expertise in technical construction and engineering processes, business management, and marketing.

Learn More

Search Keywords: low-carbon concretecarbon emissionsAmerican cement association

Hero Caption: Students watch as a unique, lower-carbon cement mixture pours from a ready-mix truck on the �� campus.

Kevin MacDonald

Full Name: Kevin MacDonald

Job Title: Associate Professor / Program Director

Include in Directory: Yes

College: College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Management

Department: Operations & Management Department

Program

All Degree Programs

B.S. Construction Management

Education:

Degree: Ph.D. Engineering Materials

University: University of Windsor

Degree: M.S. Engineering Materials

University: University of Windsor

Degree: B.S. Chemical Engineering

University: University of Windsor

CSTEMM

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Include in Directory: Off

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Inspiring Graduate: Ellie Becker, B.S. Construction Management

goersab — Wed, 14 May 2025 17:55:50 +0000

Inspiring Graduate: Ellie Becker, B.S. Construction Managementgoersab May 14, 2025

‘I want to be a public figure that others in the construction industry can look up to.’

Inspiring Graduate: Ellie Becker (’25)

Hometown: St. James, Minnesota
Degree: B.S. Construction Management

Ellie Becker was hired before graduation to work on semiconductor facilities with Sundt Construction, in Phoenix, Arizona.

Ellie Becker receives her diploma from Chancellor Frank.

“I hope to make a meaningful impact by promoting equality and expanding opportunities within the construction industry,” Becker said. “I want to be a public figure that others in the construction industry can look up to – someone who shows that success is possible for anyone, no matter their background.”

Becker, of St. James, Minnesota, chose �� for its polytechnic advantage, something she didn’t find among other universities in the Midwest. She earned her bachelor ��. in construction management on May 10, along with 1,174 �� graduates.

“I want to remind people that there are endless opportunities out there, as long as you’re willing to take that chance. One day, I hope to share my experiences to inspire others to do the same and help build a more inclusive, supportive environment for everyone in the construction field,” she said.

Ellie Becker celebrates earning her construction management degree at commencement.

How has �� prepared you to work in your field?

The best feature Stout offers is requiring students to have an internship or co-op before graduation. That allowed me and others to travel and make new connections all across the country.

I’ve been a field engineer intern with Ames Construction, in Elk River, Minnesota, working on transportation and heavy civil road construction. I’ve been a project engineer intern with Hensel Phelps, in Seattle, Washington, working on commercial construction at SEATAC Airport.

During my co-op with Sundt Construction in fall 2024, I was a field engineer intern, working in the advanced technology and industrial sector.

Construction students, donor collaborate with nonprofit Sleep in Heavenly Peace to build beds for children

Women in Construction students organize effort to support the community

How did your involvement on campus impact your experience?

My involvement in different communities and at �� has connected me with more people than I could have imagined. It ��. been incredibly fun and rewarding to meet individuals from all over the country, each bringing their own unique backgrounds, talents and perspectives.

I loved getting to share experiences and build relationships with such a diverse group – everyone has something cool to offer, and those connections are ones I truly hope will last a lifetime.

I served on the boards of several student organizations, including the Student Construction Association, Sigma Lambda Chi Construction Honor Society and �� Women in Construction.

I was a member of �� . women ��. tennis team for four years, and I volunteered for Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Seattle Pride, Northwest Pride and Minneapolis Pride.

Ellie Becker played on the Blue Devil women's tennis team for four years.

I was also a student member of the National Association of Women in Construction and was on the Association of Building Contractors Construction Management Competition Team.

What stands out about your �� experience?

My absolute best experience at �� was studying abroad in northern Thailand to learn more about their culture and their minority groups. Spending roughly three weeks in Thailand gave me such an eye-opening experience, learning more about their history, culture and people.

The highlights of the trip for me were spending time at a protected refugee camp playing soccer and basketball and learning new games; exploring the city of Chang Mai on a moped; and celebrating the Hmong New Year in the mountains at their festival.

Members of �� . ABC competition team: Lance Wallis, Noelle Urlaub, Jeremy O’Connor, Ellie Becker and Garrett Johnson. / Contributed photo

What challenges did you face in earning your degree and how did you overcome them?

I’ve faced challenges in areas like reading, writing and math, which made certain classes especially tough. On top of that, it was difficult for me to reach out to professors for help. Over time, I realized how important it is to build genuine relationships with my instructors. When professors get to know you personally, they start to understand where you’re struggling, and that connection can make a big difference. It helped me feel more supported and more confident in asking for the help I needed.

What are you most proud of as you finish your degree?

I am most proud of who Stout has made me as a person. Without my experience at Stout, I cannot imagine where I would be today.

A big part of my success isn’t just because of me. It's thanks to the incredible people I've surrounded myself with. Their support, encouragement, and belief in me have shaped not only where I am today but also how I’m perceived as an individual. Of course, it hasn’t all been sunshine and rainbows. I’ve faced plenty of challenges and obstacles along the way.

But I truly believe those tough moments helped shape me into the person I am today – and for that, I’m grateful.

Inspiring Graduates

All Inspiring Graduates News

Inspiring Graduates Share Their Stout Experiences

Celebrate our graduates as they cross the commencement stage and reflect on the journey that brought them here

May 21, 2026

Inspiring Graduate: Rosella Wille, B.S. Business Administration

Hired before graduation at Redpath and Company as a tax associate

May 21, 2026

Inspiring Graduate: Thomas Shamla, B.S. Mechanical Engineering

Hired before graduation at Absolut Manufacturing

May 21, 2026

‘I want to be a public figure that others in the construction industry can look up to.’ Ellie Becker, Commencement

University Marketing

B.S. Construction Management

Our B.S. Construction Management will help you develop expertise in technical construction and engineering processes, business management, and marketing.

Learn More

Kraus-Anderson vice president, regional education leaders credit �� with shaping them

Student speakers share messages of strength in community with nearly 1,180 graduates at May 10 commencement ceremony

Inspiring Graduate Q&As

Is content a Story?: Yes

Include in Directory: Off

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Construction students, donor collaborate with nonprofit Sleep in Heavenly Peace to build beds for children

goersab — Tue, 21 May 2024 15:28:27 +0000

Construction students, donor collaborate with nonprofit Sleep in Heavenly Peace to build beds for childrengoersab May 21, 2024

Women in Construction students organize effort to support the community

Abbey Goers

With nearly one in 10 children in Dunn County living in poverty, a team of �� students and a local nonprofit chapter has built 25 twin beds to help meet children ��. basic needs for their physical, emotional and mental support.

The Women in Construction student organization invited volunteers of Sleep in Heavenly Peace to a build event at the university ��. Construction Lab this spring. Don and Peggy Qually, of Menomonie, sponsored the event with a gift to SHP.

Ellie Becker, an upcoming senior in �� . construction management program and president of the student organization, helped organize and manage the event.

“I was 100% on board with the idea because it seemed like a good way to get students involved with one another while giving back to the community,” she said.

Women in Construction and Sleep in Heavenly Peace volunteers built 25 beds for local children / ��

Becker, of St. James, Minn., reached out to SHP ��. Dunn County Chapter President Mary Bygd to talk about a collaboration between their groups. Bygd invited the student organization board members to a local bed delivery in Menomonie, where volunteers built two bunk beds and a twin bed.

“We were overwhelmed with the rewarding feeling of giving back to a local family who had no beds for their children,” Becker said. “We wanted to implement the idea of bringing a build day to ��. The process was long but quite simple with the right communication between the Women in Construction, �� advisers and Sleep in Heavenly Peace members.”

Bygd, a retired health care administrator, worked at Mayo Clinic for more than 34 years and has been a member of the Menomonie Lions Club for 19 years. In 2019, a Lions Club member invited Sleep in Heavenly Peace to a club meeting and asked if anyone would be interested in starting a chapter in Dunn County.

“It immediately got me excited, and so I quickly raised my hand,” Bygd said, adding that the founding of the chapter was delayed because of the pandemic. It hosted its first bed build in August 2021. Since then, it has delivered 158 beds to local children and families in need.

Students deliver beds to a local family / Mary Bygd

Twelve of the beds built at �� have been delivered thus far to four homes. The other beds will be delivered when the need is identified by SHP. Children also receive a new mattress, bedding and pillows.

One fully furnished bed costs $250 to build and deliver, and each is possible with the support of donated sponsorships, like the Qually ��..

Giving back to their community

For the build day, Women in Construction reached out to other student organizations and classes to promote the event, including students in the construction program, the Student Interior Design Organization and �� . Honors College.

They were joined by Bygd, the Quallys and other community volunteers and philanthropists, as well as faculty and university leadership, including Chancellor Katherine Frank and John Buss, instrument shop supervisor in the engineering and technology department, who prepared the Construction Lab for the build.

Sleep in Heavenly Peace build event sponsors Don and Peggy Qually in ��'s Construction Lab / John Buss

The team cut, sanded, stained and constructed all of the wood components before installing the beds in the applicant families’ homes.

“Ellie and her team are a wonderful example of this generation giving back to their community,” Bygd said. “Since we typically build outdoors, having an inside option at �� was perfect. I can’t thank Ellie and �� leadership enough for opening the Construction Lab for us.”

Bygd believes she ��. had a fortunate life and a successful career and never had to struggle to make ends meet. But she has known people who struggled and lived paycheck to paycheck.

Students stain wooden bed components in the Construction Lab / ��

“The thought that children in our community do not have their own bed to sleep in pulls at my heartstrings. Sleep in Heavenly Peace was created to address this issue in any community,” Bygd said.

“My personal reward is working with a great team of people and all of the volunteers I’ve met along the way. People are so generous. The bonus reward is seeing the kids’ and families’ faces when their babies have a beautiful bed to sleep in.

“One family of five kids and a mom who escaped a domestic violence home was particularly meaningful to me. The kids were old enough to help carry in the bed materials and helped put everything together in the house. When we left, the mom thanked and hugged each of us with tears in her eyes and every one of those kids did the same. That is my ‘why.’”

A student predrills holes to prepare a bed for assembly / ��

SHP was founded in 2021 and has built and delivered in excess of 200,000 beds. There are more than 370 chapters in 45 states, and it is growing in Canada, Bermuda and the Bahamas. Studies by Harvard University, the National Science Foundation, Auburn University and the Better Sleep Council have reported on the effects that lack of sleep can have on children.

The Women in Construction student organization is new at �� and was approved last December. It currently has 20 members of all genders.

Board members, along with Becker, include Vice President Rorie Boettcher, of Eau Claire; Treasurer Marissa Harmon, of Colfax; Secretary Adrianne Krueger, of Superior; Public Relations Manager Ellie Senn, of Fall Creek; and construction Program Director Kevin Wilkinson, who serves as the organization adviser.

Ellie Becker, Chancellor Frank and Mary Bygd in the Construction Lab / John Buss

What Becker enjoys most about construction is seeing the step-by-step building process, having the hands-on experience, and using sustainable and green building practices.

This summer, she is interning with Hensel Phelps in the Pacific Northwest and may have a co-op opportunity in the fall with another company to build a more well-rounded experience before graduating in May 2025.

“After graduation, I plan on signing on full-time with a company that aligns with my values, offers great growth development opportunities and allows me to make an impact with my education,” she said.

To younger female students looking to enter traditionally male career fields, such as construction, Becker said, “You have every right to pursue a career you are passionate about; you’re just as capable as anyone else.”

Construction Management

All Construction Management News

Construction students among finalists in national ABC Competition

Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City project gives glimpse into real world construction management

May 20, 2026

Xcel Energy Cedar Falls Hydro project supports construction students’ industry experiences

Collaboration encourages students to consider impacts of infrastructure on greater community

May 12, 2026

�� forms partnership with Alquist to adopt industry-leading 3D concrete printing technology

University among first in Midwest to integrate concrete printing into polytechnic programs

March 10, 2026

Women in Construction students organize effort to support the community Women in Construction, Sleep in Heavenly Peace bed build

University Marketing

B.S. Construction Management

Our B.S. Construction Management will help you develop expertise in technical construction and engineering processes, business management, and marketing.

Learn More

Search Keywords: construction degreeconstruction programconstruction management degree

Hero Caption: Construction management student Ellie Becker, president of Women in Construction, helped organize and manage the Sleep in Heavenly Peace build event at ��

Include in Directory: Off

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Students in engineering, dietetics, construction, design receive national, regional honors

polingj — Mon, 13 May 2024 15:45:23 +0000

Students in engineering, dietetics, construction, design receive national, regional honorspolingj May 13, 2024

Awards include U.S. Department of Defense Smart Scholarship, student of the year, Best in Show

Sixteen students at �� in four career fields have been recognized this spring nationally, statewide and regionally.

Heidi Benningfield, mechanical engineering, received a major scholarship from the U.S. Department of Defense; Jordyn Springer, dietetics, was named state student of the year; a team of seven construction management students took first in a regional competition; and seven graphic design and interactive media students received awards at the annual Minnesota AdFed regional advertising competition.

The students’ success reflects in part �� . emphasis on applied learning, with Benningfield, Springer and the construction students benefiting from industry internships and the graphic design students’ campaigns judged by professionals.

Department of Defense Smart Scholarship

Heidi Benningfield, a �� mechanical engineering major, has received a U.S. Department of Defense Smart Scholarship. / Contributed photo

Benningfield, a sophomore from Mokane, Mo., applied for and received the Department of Defense Smart Scholarship.

The award will cover her tuition until she graduates, provide a stipend for room and board expenses and paid internships with the agency. This summer, she will work at National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Denver.

She will be hired and committed to working for the department for two years upon graduation in 2026. Her job will be at the Army ��. Redstone Arsenal space and missile defense technology center in Huntsville, Ala.

“I still can’t believe it,” she said of the award. “It ��. exciting to get all these big opportunities.”

Benningfield recently worked on a project with Sierra Space in Madison, an aerospace and space technology company, machining a combustion chamber component. She hopes to get her master ��. degree and become an aerospace engineer, working on design or research, with a possible interest in space systems.

Benningfield, a member of the Blue Devil gymnastics team that took fifth place in the nation this past season, loves �� . applied learning focus and individual attention from faculty and staff.

“I like the hands-on work in the machine shop. Most engineers don’t know how to operate machines. The professors and lab assistants are always willing to help and take their own time to help. The professors want you to succeed,” she said.

Dietetics student of the year

Jordyn Springer, �� dietetics senior, receives the Wisconsin Dietetics Student of the Year award from the Wisconsin Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. / Contributed photo

Springer, a senior from Florence, was named Dietetics Student of the Year by the Wisconsin Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and was honored recently at the WAND annual conference in Oshkosh.

The award recognizes achievement and leadership. Springer, who graduated May 4 with academic honors, served as co-president and public relations officer for the Stout Student Dietetic Association, was active as a community volunteer, was part of a faculty-led research project and was a social media manager for WAND.

She also completed 320 hours of field experience, required for the program, with the Florence County Health Department through the Area Health and Education Centers Community Health Internship Program — CHIP.

“The award recognizes that I am already a contributing representative of the profession, and that means everything to me. I’ve stepped into leadership roles, spent countless hours volunteering and gained valuable work experience in the field. It ��. a wonderful feeling to be recognized by the Wisconsin Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics,” Springer said.

She is excited about her career opportunities. Along with clinical nutrition, community nutrition and food service she hopes to explore private practice that could combine her passion for digital marketing and design. “There are truly so many opportunities in this field, and I can't wait to keep exploring them,” she said.

In June, Springer will begin the Master of Science program in dietetics at �� and apply to an internship program while preparing to become a registered dietitian.

“Jordyn has proactively prepared for her courses and planned for her future,” said Assistant Professor Karen Ostenso, program director. “She seeks opportunities to enhance her skills outside the classroom through volunteer work, leadership and work experiences.”

Construction management champions

Students who won the Ryan Companies Pursuit competition are, from left, Mason Fischer, Ryan Hazzard, Jayden Boero, Andrew Ernstmeyer, Logan Baribeau, Leif Triller and Matt Grady. / Contributed photo

The construction management students won an invitational competition against eight other universities. Ryan Companies of Minneapolis sponsors the annual event, called the Pursuit.

Students worked all semester on a detailed RFP — request for proposal — for an actual project that the company recently developed. It was two, 150,000-square-foot precast warehouses in Brooklyn Center, Minn., with a six-month completion schedule. Then, students gave a 15-minute presentation of their RFPs at Ryan Companies headquarters, followed by Q&As.

“Not only did these students do a great job with the information in the RFP, but they also put a significant amount of effort into their presentation skills, which is what truly separated them from the competition,” said Lecturer Jim Bunkelman, their adviser.

The �� team first had to compete internally against four other student teams to represent the university in the event.

Team members were Logan Baribeau, of Cameron; Jayden Boero, of Burlington; Andrew Ernstmeyer, of Hixton; Mason Fischer, of Jordan, Minn.; Matt Grady, of Menomonee Falls; Ryan Hazzard, of Oconomowoc; and Leif Triller, of Oconomowoc.

Ryan Companies is represented on the advisory committee for �� . construction management program.

For the actual Brooklyn Center project, a �� alum, Jack Houlihan, was the project manager.

Graphic design Minnesota AdFed awards

�� graphic design student Kylie Ganther won Best in Show for her multifaceted advertising campaign promoting a Play Doh festival. / Contributed photo

�� students won four gold, two silver and three bronze awards from the Advertising Federation of Minnesota.

The event, called the Show, is juried by accomplished creative directors, writers and designers from across the country. Along with the student competition, professionals from the region received awards.

Kylie Ganther, a senior from Chili, Wis., won gold and Best in Show from the local Minnesota chapter and a gold medal from the regional chapter, which includes the Upper Midwest. She created a consumer campaign promoting a Play-Doh festival at Walker Art Center in Minneapolis. Her entry included ads for print, commercials, virtual reality and social media.

It ��. the third time in the past four years that a �� student has won Best in Show.

Evan Pope, a junior from Brillion, won two golds, from the Minnesota and regional chapters, for a consumer campaign and magazine campaign for Hello Goodbye, a sustainably based whitening, anti-plaque toothpaste.

Other �� winners were:

Mercy Berglund, a senior from Alexandria, Minn., silver, a consumer campaign for Surely, a wine-tasting truck
Alex Martin, a senior from River Falls, bronze, consumer campaign for Forget About It, a golf ball that when lost in the water is biodegradable
Niamh Sass, a junior from Hugo, Minn., silver, a website campaign compatible with a desktop or mobile device for Mid-Century Modern Illustration
Addy Spaeth, a junior from Rochester, Minn., a consumer campaign for Anything Goes, a social media influencer
Grace Walz, a junior from Maple Grove, Minn., bronze, consumer campaign for Design on Tap, which would bring together designers and brewers.

Professor Nagesh Shinde congratulated the students on their “well-deserved” awards.

“Congratulations on winning regional and national advertising awards. This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to your hard work, creativity and dedication. Your innovative ideas and exceptional skills have set you apart, showcasing your potential to significantly impact the advertising industry,” he said.

“We are incredibly proud of your success and eagerly anticipate the groundbreaking contributions you will continue to bring to the profession. Keep pushing the boundaries of creativity and excellence.”

###

Sixteen students at �� in four career fields have been recognized this spring nationally, statewide and regionally. Jordyn Springer

University Marketing

More than 100 outstanding students recognized at annual Leadership Awards ceremony

Wood Medallion recipients Charest, Timm share experiences in service on and off campus

Karen Ostenso

Biography

Karen Ostenso is a registered dietitian (RD) with over 20 years of clinical experience in both the inpatient, outpatient setting. She was a certified diabetes educator (CDE) for 15 years. Karen enjoyed working one on one with clients and now enjoys sharing her knowledge and experiences with students who want to be future dietitians. Karen also enjoys involvement in projects related to community nutrition, health, and wellness.

Teaching Interests

Undergraduate community and older adult nutrition; general nutrition, professional development; and experiential learning; graduate clinical nutrition; older adult nutrition; and experiences in community practice.

Research Interests

Development of evidenced based public health interventions or initiatives promoting successful aging; community health promotion; dietetic student education; success in the classroom and career development; school-aged nutrition

Professional Interests

Program leadership; student professional development; UG and graduate research; community connection building

Full Name: Karen Ostenso

Job Title: Assistant Professor

Include in Directory: Yes

College: College of Arts & Human Sciences

Department: Kinesiology, Health, Food & Nutritional Sciences Department

Program

All Degree Programs

Curriculum Vitae: Karen Ostenso CV (182.8 KB)

Education:

Degree: Ph.D. Public Health

University: Walden University

Degree: M.S.

University: Drexel University

Degree: B.S. Community Health Education

University: Temple University

CEHHHS CACHSS

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Include in Directory: Off

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Academic Final Four: Construction management students take second in MCAA event

polingj — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 17:58:10 +0000

Academic Final Four: Construction management students take second in MCAA eventpolingj April 1, 2024

Team scores ‘huge accomplishment’ in mechanical proposal contest against peers from across country; ABC team eighth in U.S.

A �� team made it to the coveted Final Four — not the NCAA ��. March Madness basketball tournament but the MCAA Final Four for construction management students.

The six-person team didn’t just get to the big show — like the hoops tournament just four teams qualified after preliminary rounds — but came home with hardware. They reached the championship game, so to speak, at the Mechanical Contractors Association of American conference in Orlando, earning a second-place trophy in the national collegiate competition.

“This was a huge accomplishment by the team. We were up against some tough competition, and the work our team put in over the seven months was evident. I’m extremely proud of the �� MCAA team,” said team member Hans Stelpflug, a senior from the southeastern Wisconsin village of Colgate.

Along with Associate Professor Dean Wirtanen, left, MCAA competition team members at the national event were Hans Stelpflug, Carter Hamilton, Conner DeTienne and Jacob Kallas. / Contributed photo

Meanwhile, another student construction team took eighth place in the U.S. at a separate competition in Florida.

After making the Sweet 16 in 2023, taking 14th place, the MCAA team members put their hearts into doing better in this year ��. challenge, which was to submit a request for proposal involving mechanical contracting for a real project at the Kansas City Zoo.

Although disappointed in not taking first, Jacob Kallas, a senior from Thiensville, was “completely overjoyed by the experience I received, both in completing the actual proposal and attending the conference, and thankful for the opportunities and standings that were a result of our work.”

�� took second behind California Polytechnic State University of San Luis Obispo, Calif. The other two finalists, Ball State University from Muncie, Ind., and McMaster University from Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, received honorable mention.

�� team members present their project at the MCAA competition in Orlando. / Contributed photo

MCAA is a national trade association representing mechanical construction, plumbing and service firms.

Also attending were Connor DeTienne, a senior from Grantsburg, and Carter Hamilton, a senior from Appleton. Team members Sam Tornow, a junior from Eau Claire, and Ross Zillman, a senior from Eau Claire, did not make the trip.

“The team worked very hard on their report and presentation. I’m very proud of them,” said Associate Professor Dean Wirtanen, their adviser, who attended the conference with them.

Project began in September

The team began work on its proposal in September, submitted it in December and was notified in January that it had made the Final Four. After meeting weekly the past two months, their final, 10-minute presentation was March 19 in Orlando.

They also had to prepare for follow-up questions by the judges. “While both were nerve-racking, we diligently spent the past few months preparing, and it ended up paying off,” Kallas said.

They were required to provide a detailed proposal for installing mechanical equipment during the zoo project, accounting for numerous aspects such as safety, equipment travel paths, site utilization, phasing and more.

Team members each receive a signed football from Jim Kelly, NFL Hall of Fame quarterback, after taking second place. / Contributed photo

“There was limited access on the site, and equipment had to be set on multiple levels of the building. We approached this as a team and used real world examples from our various experiences to generate feasible solutions,” Stelpflug said. “Having project specific information about safety, site logistics and a detailed schedule were very important to place in the final four teams.”

Team members said their on-the-job experiences through �� . Cooperative Education and Internship Program contributed to their MCAA success. Stelpflug worked with Catalyst Construction in Milwaukee in 2022 and Boldt Company in Eau Claire in 2023. Kallas worked in 2022 at Gabor Design Build in Germantown and 2023 at JP Cullen in Milwaukee.

After their presentations, teams also met with judges — professionals in the mechanical contracting industry — to get individual feedback on the strengths and weaknesses of their proposals and presentations.

The �� team received $5,000, which will go toward the students’ education expenses. They also each received a signed football from and met NFL Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly, formerly of the Buffalo Bills.

B.S. Construction Management

Our B.S. Construction Management will help you develop expertise in technical construction and engineering processes, business management, and marketing.

Learn More

Also, Stelpflug received a tournament MVP award — most valuable presenter — and a $500 gift card.

“The way our team worked together to develop a successful proposal was a key component to our success this year,” Kallas said. “If I didn’t join this team, I would have never had the opportunity to learn from my teammate ��. experiences and knowledge. We all came into it with different skillsets in different areas, and we all grew and excelled because of one another.”

Team members said they benefited from networking opportunities at the conference and meeting fellow construction management majors from around the country. “It was amazing to hear how the three other teams approached some of the issues and challenges within this year ��. RFP,” Kallas said.

The seniors in the MCAA student chapter plan to pass on the knowledge and lessons they learned from the experience to other members of the student chapter to hopefully help them return to the MCAA Final Four in 2025.

“I think the biggest takeaway for me was the amount of construction experience I gained from joining this competition team. Over the last two years, I was able to learn so many things about the mechanical industry and further my knowledge of writing construction proposals,” Stelpflug said. “While our construction courses provide a solid foundation for students, this competition team allowed us to dive deeper into the mechanical industry and understand how important the mechanical scope is on a project.”

Members of �� . ABC competition team who traveled to Florida were, from left, Lance Wallis, Noelle Urlaub, Jeremy O’Connor, Ellie Becker and Garrett Johnson. / Contributed photo

Eighth place in ABC competition, plus a first

Another �� team competed at a different competition in March in Orlando sponsored by ABC — Associated Builders and Contractors. The team took first place in the estimating division for a project at the Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center.

Out of 25 teams from around the U.S., �� took eighth place in the overall competition, which included contests in project management, quality control and safety. Many of the competing schools were from large universities, such as Purdue and Michigan State. Clemson University took first place.

The team included Ellie Becker, of St. James, Minn.; Riley Boushack, of Chili, Wis.; Dak Doyle, of Hayward; Connor Hemme, of Andover, Minn.; Garrett Johnson, of Duluth, Minn.; Jeremy O’Connor, of Preston, Minn.; Noelle Urlaub, of Eau Claire; and Lance Wallis, of Dresser. Boushack, Doyle and Hemme did not attend the event.

After submitting their proposal, they completed a five-hour challenge in Florida and were one of nine teams to advance to the final stage.

"We had great coordination and teamwork in aligning each of our sections of the project to complete the proposal. During the presentation and step three, this team did a great job responding to the judges’ complex questions with efficiency and ingenuity,” said O’Connor, who noted that �� improved from 17th place last year.

O’Connor is vice president of �� . Student Construction Association.

The team is part of the ABC National Student Chapter Network.

###

A �� team made it to the coveted Final Four — not the NCAA ��. March Madness basketball tournament but the MCAA Final Four for construction students. MCAA

University Marketing

On familiar ground: Construction major Hoyord interning on project at his former high school

After just one year of college, �� construction major Isaiah Hoyord could have been a bit intimidated when he walked on the job for his first internship.

Dean Wirtanen

Full Name: Dean A. Wirtanen

Job Title: Associate Professor

Include in Directory: Yes

College: College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Management

Department: School of Management Operations & Management Department

Program

All Degree Programs

B.S. Construction Management

Curriculum Vitae: Dean A. Wirtanen CV (340.7 KB)

Education:

Degree: Ed.D. Education

University: Northcentral University

Degree: M.S. Environmental and Public Health

University: University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

Degree: B.S. Civil Engineering

University: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Degree: Professional Civil Engineer

University: State of Wisconsin

CSTEMM

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Include in Directory: Off

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

News

Construction students among finalists in national ABC Competition

A project to reimagine a city skyline

B.S. Construction Management

Xcel Energy Cedar Falls Hydro project supports construction students’ industry experiences

Presenting a complete construction plan

Students contributing to the greater community

B.S. Construction Management

�������� forms partnership with Alquist to adopt industry-leading 3D concrete printing technology

Center for Advanced Manufacturing & Artificial Intelligence

Students collaborate across degrees in community project for The Neighbors

B.S. Construction Management

�������� completes $7.4M lab renovation, improving space for cutting-edge equipment and learning

Windows to education: $7.4M labs renovation project sheds light on mechanical, plastics engineering

Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation donation transforms labs with advanced manufacturing equipment

Solid success: Faculty, student project focuses on low-carbon concrete

Moving from lab to sidewalk

Student benefits from ‘world-class expertise’

Addressing climate change with engineering

B.S. Construction Management

Inspiring Graduate: Ellie Becker, B.S. Construction Management

Inspiring Graduate: Ellie Becker (’25)

Construction students, donor collaborate with nonprofit Sleep in Heavenly Peace to build beds for children

B.S. Construction Management

Kraus-Anderson vice president, regional education leaders credit �������� with shaping them

Construction students, donor collaborate with nonprofit Sleep in Heavenly Peace to build beds for children

Giving back to their community

B.S. Construction Management

Students in engineering, dietetics, construction, design receive national, regional honors

Department of Defense Smart Scholarship

Dietetics student of the year

Construction management champions

Graphic design Minnesota AdFed awards

More than 100 outstanding students recognized at annual Leadership Awards ceremony

Academic Final Four: Construction management students take second in MCAA event

Project began in September

B.S. Construction Management

Eighth place in ABC competition, plus a first

On familiar ground: Construction major Hoyord interning on project at his former high school

�� forms partnership with Alquist to adopt industry-leading 3D concrete printing technology

�� completes $7.4M lab renovation, improving space for cutting-edge equipment and learning

Kraus-Anderson vice president, regional education leaders credit �� with shaping them