CIM Student Profile

Joseph Grout

School: Texas State University

Class: Class of 2025

Expected Date of Graduation: May 2025

“In conjunction with the U.S. Space Force, I am participating in the Space Scholar program (the most prestigious Department of Defense internship program) working with graduate students on furthering ideas with lunar concrete and 3-D printing technology.”

How has the CIM program prepared you for the “real world”?
There is a seemingly endless number of opportunities to connect with the industry. The opportunity to participate in industry conferences, the many industry speakers who come to our school, industry support as we participation in competition and the many opportunities to participate in internships.

What advice would you give to other current CIM students?
Get involved! Classes are important. They get the degree, but getting involved outside the classroom is what makes the degree truly valuable. Get involved with research and competitions as they can provide opportunities to get more hands-on experience.

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?
Our ability to travel to industry events and network with industry leaders is such an important part of the CIM program. I have been fortunate to attend the American Concrete Institute’s (ACI) 2022 Fall Convention in Dallas, Texas, the American Society of Concrete Contractor’s 2022 Annual Conference in Cleveland, Ohio, World of Concrete 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada, ACI’s 2023 Spring Convention in San Francisco, California and the NC2 National Concrete Consortium.

The CIM program works with businesses in providing summer internships. Have you been able to take advantage of that program to develop your industry knowledge?

In conjunction with the U.S. Space Force, I am participating in the Space Scholar program (the most prestigious Department of Defense internship program) working with graduate students on furthering ideas with lunar concrete and 3-D printing technology. Thanks to Dr. Torres for helping make this internship happen!

Have you been able to interact with the CIM Patrons at your school? If so, in what capacity?

The Patron’s involvement keeps the program connected to how a degree in CIM can be used after graduation. I have had the opportunity to sit in on Patron board meetings and our Patrons have attended quite a few events including ACI meetings.