CIM Faculty/Staff

CIM Faculty/Staff Member

Anthony Torres, Texas State University

School: Texas State University

Which CIM program are you involved with and what are your responsibilities?

I joined the Department of Engineering Technology (Concrete Industry Management program) in August 2013 and presently teaching “Understanding the Concrete Construction System” at Texas State University.

Why should incoming students consider CIM as a major course of study?

The CIM program is a very unique program that will allow students to gain an essential advantage when working in the industry. Concrete is the most widely used building material and having a better understanding of the material will lead to more job opportunities and better advancement. Our graduating seniors go into the industry with better knowledge than most construction majors, as our students will have better expertise in the concrete construction process.

Can you describe the different career paths that graduates of the CIM program can take?

A student can choose to go straight into the construction industry after completing their CIM degree or choose to obtain an advanced degree – further broadening their concrete knowledge. These students have a unique edge on the standard construction degree, as they have a specialty in the most widely used building material.

What are your thoughts about the industry/academic partnership between CIM and its industry partners?

No other program has such a strong industry involvement. This leads to better job placement after graduation, improved curriculum development, and more focused research initiatives. Similar to industry involvement, the CIM patrons’ involvement enhances the students learning through financial support and focused research.

Why should companies in the concrete industry get involved in the CIM program?

By getting involved in the CIM program you can improve your employee recruitment, increase the quality of your employees, and have some input on what you feel the students should be learning so they are better prepared for the transition into the industry. Secondly, you can influence the CIM research efforts by providing input as to how you and your company can benefit from research.

What is your vision for the CIM program?

My vision for the CIM program is to increase enrollment and increase research production. First, more students enrolled will lead to more interest in scientific research. After the program grows, additional faculty can be hired, thus increasing research production.