CIM Student Profile

Brittany DeGroot

School: South Dakota State University

Class: Class of 2024

Expected Date of Graduation: May 2024

“Get involved in the industry as much as you can, whether you do an internship at a company or work in the field for a company.”

Where are you from originally?
I am originally from Texas, but I have lived most of my life in South Dakota.

Why did you choose this university and the CIM program?
I chose SDSU because they had the CIM program. My parents own a concrete and construction business so I thought the program would be perfect.

How has the CIM program prepared you for the “real world”?
The CIM program continues to provide real-world information like teaching us about ACI field testing and how to read blueprints. We have also gone on field trips to see different parts of the industry in action, like visiting a cement terminal or an aggregate plant.

What advice would you give to other current CIM students?
Get involved in the industry as much as you can, whether you do an internship at a company or work in the field for a company. By working out in the field, you get to be part of the building process and see how forms are set, how rebar gets laid and how the concrete is poured and finished.

CIM students often travel to industry events and/or association conventions to understand the industry better and network. Which events have you been able to attend?
I have been able to attend World of Concrete in Las Vegas. It was a great experience. My favorite part was attending an industry breakfast and learning from conversations between contractors and industry experts.

Have you been able to interact with the CIM Patrons at your school? If so, in what capacity?
I have been able to have lunch and network with the Patrons at my school. They have also helped prepare us for the ACI field testing exam.