At Peerless Concrete Products Co., my role as a production scheduler is dynamic, requiring both precision and adaptability. Each day, I oversee the scheduling of approved jobs for production, which can range from a single structure to more than 100 different ones. Once these structures are ready, I coordinate their delivery, ensuring smooth and timely logistics. Beyond production and delivery, I also manage the procurement of supplies for the crews responsible for building and pouring these structures. My responsibilities don’t stop there; I also engage in inside sales, combining operational expertise with customer interaction to meet client needs effectively.

The Concrete Industry Management (CIM) program was instrumental in preparing me for the challenges of this role.

The education I received gave me a solid foundation, equipping me with the expertise needed to excel in the concrete industry well before I even began my career.

My decision to pursue the CIM program was rooted in my longstanding interest in the construction industry. I’ve always been drawn to its hands-on and tangible nature, so when my sister, a CIM graduate, introduced me to the program, it felt like a perfect match. The opportunity to earn a business minor alongside my studies made it even more appealing. To enhance my knowledge further, I paired the CIM major with Construction Engineering Technology (CET), giving me a well-rounded understanding of concrete and its applications in modern construction.

My time at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) was filled with opportunities to bridge the gap between education and industry. Twice a year, the CIM program hosted Patron meetings, bringing industry professionals to campus to engage with students and observe their progress. It was at one of these gatherings that I landed my first summer internship. The program also facilitated networking events, which offered students the chance to connect with business leaders and decision-makers, broadening their exposure to real-world opportunities.

For anyone considering the CIM program as a field of study, it’s an excellent choice. Concrete, along with steel, forms the backbone of construction, and having expertise in this material opens doors to diverse opportunities. The CIM program combines technical knowledge with a business perspective, allowing graduates to step seamlessly into roles that require both operational and managerial skills. If you’re passionate about the construction industry and eager to learn through hands-on experiences that prepare you to excel in a growing field, the CIM program offers the tools and connections to set you up for success.