Growing up in Fayetteville, Tennessee, I worked for my dad’s concrete and construction businesses. Those experiences forged my passion and set me on a career path I was eager to pursue. MTSU, conveniently close to home, felt like the perfect fit for me.

Throughout my time in the program, I embraced opportunities to explore the industry through competitions and events, such as the beam competition in Boston, World of Concrete, the Precast Show in Denver, the pervious concrete competition in New Orleans and the ASCC Conference in Kansas City. These deepened my understanding and allowed me to network with professionals and peers.

Internships also played a pivotal role in my development. My first one, through a NASA MUREP grant, introduced me to innovative testing techniques for placing concrete on the moon. My final internship, with Preferred Construction Supply in Eagleville, Tennessee, ultimately led to a full-time role as an outside sales representative.

The support of the CIM Patrons opened doors to opportunities. Thanks to their involvement, I was able to interact with leaders in the concrete industry and establish meaningful connections.