CIM Patron
Hayden Bilyeu
Title: Pavement Applications Director
Employer: Southeast Cement Promotion Association
“CIM students are introduced to the industry early and often, which allows them to jump ahead of the learning curve and hit the ground running upon graduation.”
What is your involvement in the CIM program? Why did you get involved with the program?
Shortly after graduation, I joined the CIM Patrons to continue working with the CIM students, faculty and staff. I now serve on the board of the MTSU CIM Patrons. CIM laid the foundation for my career as well as cultivated invaluable relationships. I wanted to pay it forward to the next generation of graduates.
Why have you and your company made the commitment to the CIM program? What benefits do you think it will bring to your company?
The Southeast Cement Promotion Association represents an entire sector of the construction industry and CIM produces tomorrow’s critical thinkers and decision-makers for that industry. These graduates believe in our core message and will help us push the industry forward.
What are your thoughts about the industry/academic partnership between CIM and its industry partners and patrons?
This is what truly sets CIM apart from other related programs. The students are introduced to the industry early and often, which allows them to jump ahead of the learning curve and hit the ground running upon graduation. I cut my teeth as an underclassman working in the MTSU CIM laboratory under Jon Huddleston. I found mentors, fostered relationships, developed technical and soft skills and was involved with numerous projects utilizing various construction systems across different sectors. This translated to the classroom and amplified the curriculum, which in turn led to graduating as a candidate that had more to show than just a diploma.
Why should other companies in the concrete industry get involved in the CIM program?
Whether you are a small family business or a massive international company, you need capable employees that can solve problems. CIM produces these candidates year after year.
What is your vision for the CIM program?
My vision remains for CIM to continue being the best starting point for careers and relationships in our industry, which is the program’s largest beneficiary.