Mon May 19 21:10:00 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**UW-Platteville Construction Management Program Builds Future Leaders Through Hands-On Experience**

PLATTEVILLE, Wis. (WMTV) – Forget textbooks and lectures, construction management students at UW-Platteville are trading desks for job sites, gaining invaluable real-world experience that’s making them highly sought-after in the industry.

The program emphasizes a hands-on approach, with students spending 14 hours a week working on projects ranging from residential homes and commercial buildings to roadwork, providing a comprehensive understanding of the construction field.

“This is kind of driven by our industry partners because they’re like, ‘We want students to be prepared for the field,’” said Gretchen Bockenhauer, Construction Management Program Coordinator.

The program boasts strong ties to the construction industry, hosting regular career fairs and networking events. A recent fair drew over 60 companies, many offering internships and direct job offers to students.

Senior Logan Niesen is a testament to the program’s success. After completing three internships with a company, he secured a full-time job more than a year before graduation. “I don’t know any of our… students that I’ve had this with that don’t have at least one full time offer, if not multiple full-time offers,” said Niesen.

The program’s curriculum builds a solid foundation, culminating in a hands-on capstone project that gives students confidence and clarity in their career path. Beyond the job site, UW-Platteville’s team placed fourth nationally at the ABC Construction Management Competition this year.

Adding another layer of expertise, all the program’s instructors are UW-Platteville alumni, bringing their industry experience back to the classroom.

Niesen is eager to contribute to the program that launched his career. “I know I will be a proud alumni of the program and I’m excited to be able to give back as an alumni to continue and grow the program.”

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