Alejandra Gamez
graduate, Master of science in construction management
Growing up in Mexico, Alejandra Gamez constantly observed the immense potential for improvement all around her. This inspired a dream to pursue a career where she could contribute to creating a better world. Engineering was not her initial career path—her first career was directed towards physical therapy—the desire to help build a better future led her to a career in construction.
Prior to embarking on this new journey and graduating with a Master of Science in Construction Management (MSCM) from UTEP, Alejandra worked as a bidding specialist at a logistics company. In this role, she gained valuable experience in proposal writing, project evaluation and coordinating project opportunities within the Federal Government. Attending multiple government conferences, where renewable construction was always a hot topic, sparked her interest in engineering and construction. This realization was a turning point, and she couldn't believe she could pursue a career in engineering. However, "with determination, perseverance and the support of the program’s faculty, I can now proudly say, I did it!" she says.
Alejandra believes in the power of sustainable practices and innovation to drive positive change, and is committed to making a meaningful impact in the construction industry and beyond. In addition to her MSCM degree, she also has an MBA from UTEP which has provided her with a solid foundation in business and management principles. Her goal is to transition her existing skills to the construction industry while fostering strong new relationships.
She is passionate about women's empowerment and enjoys traveling, indoor spinning, and reading personal development books with a good story, such as “The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari.”
Why she enrolled in the program:
I enrolled in the MSCM program with aspirations of joining the construction engineering field. After exploring the University’s website and conversing with the program director and faculty instructors, I realized the program’s extensive offerings. The classes are structured around real-case scenarios, providing students with a solid foundation for success in internship opportunities or their workplace. Additionally, being part of the MSCM program opens the door to joining the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) student chapter and becoming a safety instructor of the OSHA Safety in Excavation and Trenching training under the Susan Harwood grant.
Her experience with online learning:
Yes, this is the first time I have enrolled mostly in online courses.
My experience with online learning was very fulfilling because it allowed me the flexibility to accommodate my study time, focus on my internship, and provide safety training to multiple local contractors.
On how this degree has played a part in her employment:
Absolutely, pursuing my MSCM degree opened the door to incredible job opportunities. The program facilitated introductions with multiple contractors and job opportunities that were sent constantly to our student email.
As a student of the MSCM, I was welcomed to become a safety instructor providing the OSHA Safety Training in Excavation and Trenching under the supervision of Dr. Adeeba Raheem, Dr. Austin Marshall, and Ms. Nubia Medina. This allowed me to directly contribute to the employee safety of local contractors facing these hazards, which account for 112% of fatalities, higher than general construction operations.
During this time, I also had the opportunity to meet the team from Sundt Construction, Inc. I began as an intern there and I'm excited to share that I've recently accepted a position with them as a Field Engineer in the commercial sector. The MSCM program prepared me with the necessary tools to help me start with confidence and build up my career.
On whether she has the support she needs:
Yes, I always felt the support of the faculty. Their openness to talk and guide me along the right path allowed me to find a mentor in a few of them.
One thing I wish I had, given that I was new to the field, was the opportunity to meet my classmates that were local to discuss the material outside of the classroom portal.
What she would say to prospective online students:
I want prospective students to know that the MSCM program is an exceptional opportunity for anyone aspiring to continue their education or enter the construction engineering field. One of the key strengths of the program is its focus on real-case scenarios, which provides a practical and hands-on learning experience through an internship. This approach not only equips students with theoretical knowledge but also prepares them for real-world challenges.
On whether she would enroll in this program again if she had to do things over:
Of course, I would enroll in this program again without hesitation. The MSCM program has provided me with invaluable knowledge and skills. The program's comprehensive curriculum and the support from the faculty have significantly contributed to my professional growth.
Additionally, the MSCM program opened the doors to joining the DBIA student chapter, and becoming a safety instructor under the Susan Harwood grant, and the most fulfilling of all, landing an internship in one of the top construction companies. These opportunities have enriched my educational experience and expanded my professional network. The opportunities I gained, and the practical, hands-on learning environment are the reasons I would choose this program again.
