Connor Groham (Buffalo, NY) explored mechanical engineering in high school but was drawn to the hands-on opportunities he saw in construction management. Alfred State’s construction management program allowed him to pursue a career where he isn’t going to be sitting behind a desk all day.
Connor's Pioneer PROfile video
“I chose Alfred State because it was close to Buffalo relative to other colleges that offer my major and it is also ranked one of the top programs in the country.”
Connor enjoys the mix of lectures in labs he experiences at Alfred. “Classes here are very mixed - you have your labs and you have your lecture time, but we also do site visits. It gives us time to get out to see different projects and meet cool people. It is much different to talk to somebody that is pouring the concrete, setting the rebar, or doing the framing.”
The professors have added to his experiences within the major. “The professors here at Alfred State are very knowledgeable and personable. Many of them have worked in industry and they have multiple degrees in construction.”
“The best thing about this major is the connectivity it has to the industry,” continued Groham. “At the career fairs there have so many companies that come in and you can learn more about what they do. I have found internship opportunities for my summer and winter breaks.”
Connor has added to his education by serving as the President of the Alfred State Associated General Contractors Club, helping others by being a peer tutor, and competing in various construction competitions.
“One of the cool experiences that I have had here at Alfred State is that my younger brother is also in the construction management program and we are actually both going to go work for LeChase Construction after we're done here.”
Alfred State prepared Connor to walk the stage and walk right into his career.