The Department of Construction Management’s senior spotlight this week falls on Ramiro Cervantes Arroyo, a northern Colorado native and first generation college graduate. Having attended Aims Community College immediately after high school, Arroyo originally transferred to CSU to pursue a mechanical engineering degree. However, his involvement in a car accident changed his outlook on life. He changed his pursuit to construction management because of his experience in the field. His favorite high school class had been the construction trade class where he was able to be hands-on and design and build his own projects. He said, “My first semester as a pre-CM student was both exciting and overwhelming, since I had completely changed my intended career path.”
Arroyo worked many part-time jobs during high school, community college, and his time at CSU. From security to retail and more recently as Assistant Superintendent for Western Specialty Contractors. He feels fortunate to have been chosen by this company as an intern in the summer of 2018. Working there, he learned a lot about building restoration and waterproofing. He feels this experience gave him the ability to be a leader, who is able to supervise jobs from start to finish.
When asked if he felt prepared for his career, Arroyo said that all the resources available at CSU and through CM, such as events and activities that allow students to create their own career path, were invaluable. “The CM department has various connections with local companies and sponsored events that allow students like myself to get real world experience,” Arroyo said. “During my time as a CM student, the CM Career Fair has benefited me the most, allowing me to get my foot in the door in the construction industry through my internship. Because of this event I was able to be paired up with Western Specialty Contractors, which is where I have gained experience as well as a position after graduation.”
Advice to students
His advice to other CM students is based on his regret in not participating more with competition teams. He encourages other CM students to not be afraid to participate in as many activities that CSU and the CM department offer. “Get involved in everything you can,” Arroyo said, “because with all of the resources available at CSU, you have to get involved in order to get the most out of your experience as a CSU Ram.”
Career plans
After graduation, Arroyo has been offered the opportunity to continue with Western Specialty Contractors as an assistant superintendent, in St. Louis, Missouri. The company is providing a company truck, and is helping with moving expenses when he makes the move this summer. “It’s rewarding to see that my hard work has paid off, and I can’t wait to experience what’s next,” said Arroyo. “After working in St. Louis on my assigned project, I hope to move up in the company, and eventually return to northern Colorado where my family resides.”
The Department of Construction Management is part of CSU’s College of Health and Human Sciences.
