CIM Graduate
Matthew Valencia
School: New Jersey Institute of Technology
Graduation Date: May 2016
Employer: StormTrap
“CIM is a great program that will provide many opportunities for you to succeed in this industry. However, if you don’t put in the work to take advantage of those opportunities, they will be handed to the person that is willing to go the extra mile. ”
What school did you graduate from and in which year?
I graduated from the New Jersey Institute of Technology in May 2016.
Who is your current employer and where are they located?
I currently work for StormTrap in Romeoville, Illinois.
When did you start your current job, what is your position and what are your job responsibilities?
I started with StormTrap in June 2016 as a technical sales support representative. I am responsible for supporting territory managers (TM) in selling high-end storm water design services and solutions to civil engineers and site work/utility contractors in a complex multi-stage sales environment. Extensive contact is required with the northeast team to communicate timely project details and specific product details.
Why did you choose this position and company?
I choose StormTrap because they are a young, progressive company that is solving one of the biggest issues the environment is faced with, which is storm water management. In the technical sales support representative role, I have the opportunity to develop relationships with individuals in the industry who are like-minded and are working toward the solution of storm water management.
Why did you choose to attend your university?
NJIT does an amazing job of not only educating students, but also developing individuals to have a strong work ethic. During my time at NJIT, I was able to develop leadership skills with the Lisa A. Pierce Center for Leadership that have already proven to be critical in my development, both in my personal and professional life. During my decision-making process to attend NJIT, it was evident to me that this was the perfect school where I could develop as an individual.
What made you decide to join the CIM program?
The CIM program was appealing to me in that it represents a $237 billion industry with many different opportunities. The CIM program created the avenue for me to enter an industry that was very technical in nature, but also has the business and environmental impact that interests me.
How did CIM prepare you for working in the concrete industry?
The CIM program has prepared me to be successful in this industry by setting the foundation early on so that it can be built upon with my experiences. They have instilled a good understanding of what kind of work ethic is required to be successful in this industry.
What advice would you give to someone considering joining the CIM program?
CIM is a great program that will provide many opportunities for you to succeed in this industry. However, if you don’t put in the work to take advantage of those opportunities, they will be handed to the person that is willing to go the extra mile.