CM Advisory Board

Overview

The Construction Management Program Advisory Board was highlighted during the 2012 ACCE accreditation visit as a “strength of the program.” Composed of a broad representation of local industry, it is engaged and committed to the success of the program.

Formed in the late 1990s to promote the development of the Construction Management program, the Board was restructured in 2010 into a chartered, self-governing body of industry and construction/facility association professionals. Its mission is to advise the program on the direction of the industry as a whole and provide advice directly to the program in seven strategic areas.

1. Periodic review of the Construction Management curriculum and accreditation
2. Review of any new Construction Management curricular or programmatic initiatives proposed by CCAPS
3. Identification of ways to integrate the larger industry community into the program by coordinating with student groups, faculty, and staff on such matters as fundraising, scholarship/endowment development, academic outreach, public relations, and enrollment growth
4. Setting standards and policies for membership on the Board
5. Serving as a resource on issues brought to the Board by CCAPS or other collegiate or private and public stakeholders
6. Identification of potential faculty, particularly adjunct faculty
7. Facilitation of industry activities in support of students and learning

Seats on the Advisory Board are held by an organization, rather than by an individual. Seats are held on a three-year renewable basis. There are presently 50 seats chartered, with additional ex-officio members consisting of University staff and representatives of departments and colleges. The student and alumni groups are represented on the Board, with the group presidents serving a one-year term.

Four standing committees designated in the charter meet on an as-needed basis: an Executive Committee, Academic Committee, Development Committee, and Student Activities and Outreach Committee. Ad hoc committees may be formed at any time to explore specific issues or initiatives.

Annual Board Meetings

Two meetings of the full Advisory Board are held each year.

Fall Board Meeting: October 26, 2021
This meeting was held via Zoom. Six new companies were welcomed to the board: ADC, Tri-Construction, KMS Construction, Eden Resources, PWS-Meyer Companies, and Wells Concrete. Representatives from these companies will bring more diversity to the Board. The main discussion topic was the supply chain issues in the construction industry, and the response to them. Members reported wage and material cost increases, project delays, skilled labor shortages. Responses have included switching to alternative products, careful planning for labor and material shortages, and greater consideration of project funding and timing to ensure it can be completed. It was felt to be a good environment for graduates to get a job. It was announced that Board Member Gen McJilton has received a Finance & Commerce Top Women in Construction Award for Outstanding Project Management/ Estimating. There were 42 attendees. Meeting minutes available on request.

Spring Board Meeting: April 5, 2022
This meeting was held via Zoom. The meeting heard an overview of DEI initiatives for the College of Continuing and Professional Studies. The discussion topic was how to integrate DEI into the curriculum. The Board broke into discussion groups. Feedback included the need for meaningful and long-term change, the need for all students to be able to navigate the issues involved, the need for relationship building beyond transactions and quotas, bringing women into the industry, and understanding cultural differences. Connection to high schools was discussed to get students interested in the program and creating welcoming environments when they join the profession. Practical steps the program could take included inviting guest lecturers of color and visiting minority-owned businesses. The meeting also noted the recent passing of Richard Copeland, founder of Thor Construction, who had a major impact on DEI initiatives nationally and locally. There were 42 attendees. Meeting minutes available on request.

Board Members

Board membership in summer 2021 stood at 45 voting members.

* Alumni
** Faculty member