For nearly a decade, the Northern California-based Construction Employers Association (CEA) has enhanced the education of the next generation of construction managers by supporting the Lyles College of Engineering at Fresno State.

CEA has gifted more than $200,000 to the college since 2004. These funds have been used to enhance the college’s Construction Management Program.

“The support from CEA has been truly transformational for the Construction Management program at Fresno State” said Dr. Manoochehr Zoghi, program chair and Lyles College associate dean. “It has enabled us to launch major initiatives which would have not been possible otherwise.”

Zoghi said projects funded by CEA include outreach to high schools and community colleges, leadership training, partnerships with community-based organizations and a mandatory internship program that provides real-world experience for students.

“Our university grants are designed to support and promote quality construction management education with the hope of developing long-term relationships with the universities,” said Doug Reitz, CEA board member. “Fresno State has always produced high-quality individuals that have gone on to enhance construction companies through the Central Valley and all of California.”

CEA’s program to support education within the construction management industry is in its 16th year. According to the CEA, they have awarded more than $1.77 million in funding to help colleges and universities develop future leaders in the industry.

CEA’s history of support of the Lyles College was recognized with a plaque, presented by Fresno mayor Ashley Swearengin Nov. 7 at Fresno City Hall.

Accredited by the American Council for Construction Education, the Construction Management Program prepares students for careers as project managers, project engineers, real estate developers, design coordinators and construction consultants.
“Not only do our graduates understand the blueprints, they can lead a work force, oversee large projects and manage contracts,” said Dr. Ram Nunna, dean of the Lyles College.

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