As the Golden Triangle prepares for a period of unprecedented growth, Lamar University is responding with a new program to produce professionals ready to work in the booming construction industry. The new Reese Construction Management Program at Lamar University is enrolling now for its first classes, which begin in the fall.
The new program offers a Bachelor of Science degree with a unique combination of required courses focusing on both the business and engineering technology aspects of construction. Students will receive a solid foundation in management basics required by industry as well as “hands-on” experiences with construction technology. The new program is made possible through the generous support of Jerry and Sheila Reese of Beaumont.
Steven McCrary, who joined the LU faculty this month, serves as director of the new program and is seeking students interested in enrolling to prepare for careers in this fast-paced and rewarding profession.
“There are just so many things the construction industry can’t teach their people on the job. They’ve got to rely on higher education to do that,” McCrary said. “There are people who work in the trades who move up in the organization, but it’s becoming much harder to do.”
Classes in the LU construction management program will teach students necessary skills such as estimating, scheduling, contracting and contract management. Students will be prepared for a varied of construction management jobs in all aspects of the industry from residential to industrial construction. Courses also will provide opportunities to learn about business philosophy and ethics and good communication skills.
“Education is not just about building. It’s about how you as a person fit into an organization and into society and how your organization fits into society. All of those things are taught with a college degree as well as the technical training itself, being able to come right out and do an estimate or manage a job,” McCrary said.
McCrary came to Lamar University with a solid background in both academia and the construction industry. He holds a Ph.D. in engineering management from the University of Missouri-Rolla and master’s and bachelor’s degrees in civil engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington. He served as an assistant professor at Louisiana Tech University and an associate professor at John Brown University and Missouri State University.
McCrary also is a registered professional engineer and professional land surveyor. His 14 years of professional experience include project management, engineering, construction surveying and construction administration.
Jack Hopper, dean of the College of Engineering and executive assistant to the president for economic development and industrial relations, said the program would have a positive impact on Lamar and the region.
“The timeliness of the program could not have been planned any better,” Hopper said. “With construction projects for the Golden Triangle being announced at $20 billion, the job market will be at an all-time high in this area for the next 10 years or more.”
Fall classes at Lamar begin August 25. For information on enrolling and registering, call (409) 880-8888 or visit lamar.edu.
