The Department of Construction Management shines the spotlight on Mahoney Bajwa, a Colorado native born and raised in Colorado Springs. Bajwa is the youngest of three with one brother who graduated from CSU in 2014.
During his high school years, Bajwa participated in a program called Project Lead the Way, an engineering program focused on teaching students about engineering, architecture, and construction. Through this, Bajwa was introduced to construction management. Having researched CM programs around the country, he was immediately drawn to CSU because of the CM program’s reputation as “one of the strongest in the nation.”
“I also had a desire to stay in Colorado, so this was a perfect fit,” Bajwa explains. “I declared pre-CM right out of high school, and to this day I could not be happier with that decision.”
Bajwa’s father, who owns a commercial roofing company in Colorado Springs, was responsible for giving him his first taste of construction. His first experiences included visiting his father’s jobsites when he was young, until he was old enough to help.
After entering the CM program at CSU, Bajwa obtained his first internship after his freshman year, and continued doing internships every other year. 
He worked in a variety of intern positions including as a field engineer, project engineer, and in preconstruction. During his tenure as a student, Bajwa accumulated a total of 16 months’ worth of internship experience with three different general contractors.
“CM as undoubtedly prepared me for my construction career,” said Bajwa. “My time here has given me the foundation, tools, and confidence necessary to be successful in this industry.”
Involvement
Being involved was paramount to Bajwa’s learning experience. He served as a CM Cares project team leader for one of the family projects; he was team captain for the NRCA roofing competition, winning 2nd place at the competition held in Nashville, TN; he was a former president for the AGC student chapter. However, serving on the CM Cares project had the biggest impact.
“Not only was it a great experience learning how to manage and build a project from the ground up, but it also taught me what role we as builders can play in society, and how our craft can truly make a difference in our local community,” said Bajwa.
After graduation, Bajwa plans to work for Golden Triangle Construction as a project engineer, based out of their metro Denver office. His long-term goal is to become a project manager.
Advice for students
In his advice to CM students still working toward their degree, Bajwa emphasizes the importance of attending the CM Career Fair and talk to as many companies as possible. He says it’s a great way to get familiar with the opportunities available, to network, and potentially get an internship.
“What I really recommend to new students is to get involved!” Bajwa said. “Join a club or competition team that interests you even if you do not feel like you have enough experience yet. I promise that every competition team or club is looking for younger participants. Another great thing is to volunteer help on a CM Cares project, Habitat for Humanity, or something similar. It’s a great way to serve your community and get some hands-on experience at the same time.”
The Department of Construction Management is part of CSU’s College of Health and Human Sciences.
