CIM Student Profile

EIias G. Magana, Jr.

School: California State University, Chico

Class: Sophomore

Expected Date of Graduation: Spring 2020

“Coming into the program, I had no experience or knowledge of concrete whatsoever! The CIM program has definitely opened doors for me which will lead me on a path for success.”

What school are you currently attending and when is your intended graduation date?

I am currently attending California State University, Chico. I am currently a sophomore and plan to graduate in the spring of 2020.

Why did you choose this university?

I had a college fair my senior year of high school and I talked to Chico representatives about engineering. They also talked to me about the CIM program. I enrolled at Chico because of my interest in construction and concrete.

How has CIM prepared you for working in the concrete industry?

Coming into the program, I had no experience or knowledge of concrete whatsoever! The CIM program has definitely opened doors for me which will lead me on a path for success.

What is your favorite class and why?

My favorite class is CIM 231: Fundamentals of Concrete Properties and Testing. It was my first CIM lab and I loved it. Getting a hands-on experience of concrete was really fun and motivating.

Have you had any particularly meaningful or exciting experiences in the program?

During my second semester of my freshman year, I had the opportunity to go to The Precast Show in Cleveland, Ohio. It was eye opening! I have not traveled much in my life and it made me realize how big the world is and it motivated me to chase bigger dreams. Seeing all the machinery at the show made me realize how big and promising the concrete industry is.

What advice would you give to someone considering joining the CIM program?

You have nothing to lose and everything to gain in the CIM program. It is the best decision I’ve ever made. I was in a position of not knowing what I wanted to do with my life, but now feel like I have a promising career ahead of me. It is the best thing that could have happened to me.

Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience with CIM?

CIM is the closest thing to family away from home. I am eight hours away from home, which is tough, but the CIM program has made it easier. We have a bond like no other major. It’s amazing how small and close everyone in the industry is.