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INVESTING IN OUR INDUSTRY


QHow did you balance being a student with full-time employment? A When I enrolled at Sacramento State University, I temporarily relocated away from my wife and son to pursue my degree. To minimize time apart, I also attended two local junior colleges con- currently. Despite the challenges, I made sure to return home every Friday to coach my son’s soccer games on Saturdays. Troughout this time, I managed a


heavy courseload of 18 to 22 units per semester while working 40 hours a week on the $77 million Wellness and Recre- ation Center Project, a ground-up, DSA, Silver LEED Certified development. Tis period was the toughest challenge our family faced, but we remained focused and determined, knowing the sacrifice would be temporary and ultimately benefit our future.


QWere you involved with AGC of California during college? A Although Sacramento State Univer- sity didn’t have an active AGC student chapter at the time, I made sure to stay involved with AGC-sponsored events, such as a California Construction Career Awareness Day in November 2011. I had the honor of sharing my personal journey with hundreds, if not thousands, of students that day, hoping to inspire the next generation of construction professionals.


QHow did the AGC of California President’s Scholarship impact you and your career path? A Receiving the AGC CEF scholarship was a transformative moment for me, providing not only financial support but also the opportunity to advance my education in project management. Tis knowledge helped me transition from a superintendent to a project manager and


20


CALIFORNIA CONSTRUCTOR JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2025


Presenting the AGC CEF President’s Scholarship to Jose Buenrostro in 2011 were, from left, AGC of California Past President (2017) Mike Mencarini, Unger Construction; the late Bob Christenson, 2010 AGC of California President; Buenrostro; and former AGC CEF Chair, the late Cathy Skeen. Both Skeen and Christensen, who passed within the last year, as well as Mencarini were longtime champions of AGC of California’s workforce development efforts.


eventually into leadership roles. Te AGC CEF also connected me to a network of professionals dedicated to excellence, offering workshops, training, and men- torship that have greatly improved my skills and effectiveness on the job site. Te sense of community and guidance I’ve gained has been invaluable. My journey from a 22-year-old laborer to a leader in the construction industry illustrates the profound impact that dedication, mentorship, and strong organizational support can have on an individual’s career. The construction industry is more than just bricks and mortar; it’s about building relationships, cultivating talent, and creating a future that we can all be proud of. I encourage everyone in the construction industry to engage with organizations like the AGC of California, as they are crucial in shaping the next generation of leaders in our industry.


Q Tell us about your career with DPR and path with the company to date.


A After graduating in 2012 with 10 years of industry experience – five in the field and five in construction management – I received five offers from top Bay Area general contractors. I chose DPR Con- struction, as their builder-first mentality resonated with me. My career journey from scholarship recipient to project ex- ecutive has been challenging yet deeply rewarding. In my current role, I uphold DPR’s core values, leading both internal and external teams to ensure safety, quality, and budget adherence. I focus on continuous improvement, resolve disputes, manage contracts, and mentor others, all while fostering a culture of accountability, inspiration, and learning.


QWhat do you enjoy most about your career in construction? A The opportunity to stay connected to the field. I still get to wear my Red Wings, walk active construction sites, and have a hands-on understanding of what it takes to build. I also appreciate the ability to relate to the workforce, especially since most of the labor force


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