Spring 2025 Board Meeting
Friday, Oct. 17, 2025
Memorial Student Center, Texas A&M University
Meeting Minutes
Lauren Collins called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m.
The meeting opened with a warm welcome and acknowledgment of the strong bonds within the council. Members were encouraged to settle in and refocus, shifting from casual conversations to the meaningful work ahead. Lauren introduced the central theme of the day by posing a reflective question: “Are you a winner?” This prompt challenged attendees to consider how they define winning, not through external accomplishments, but through personal and collective growth. The message emphasized that true winning is reflected in being “persistently better” each day, guided by the Aggie Core Values and a shared commitment to climb new mountains together as a program and profession.
From there, Lauren highlighted the progress and achievements of the past two years as examples of this mindset in action. The group celebrated the legacy and leadership that shaped the first twenty-five years of CIAC, including the wisdom and commitment of several founding members who helped build the foundation the council stands on today. Lauren also noted that the council’s unified advocacy played a role in confirming Phil as Department Head, launching a new season of strategic planning aligned with industry needs. The reconnection with national leaders from FMI and ECC was acknowledged as another step that has strengthened the council’s perspective on future industry challenges, shaping strategic direction for the department and its partners.
The narrative of progress continued with recognition of the first-ever Aggie Construction Research Symposium, which elevated research collaboration and industry engagement. Faculty accomplishments were also honored, including a prestigious national award that brought distinction to the program. Growth in endowed scholarships was celebrated as a meaningful investment in students—particularly scholarships created in memory of Zach Muckelroy and Dave Fleming, two cherished members whose impact continues through these commitments. Lauren also highlighted the launch of the Reverse Career Fair pilot taking place later that day, offering companies a new and more intentional way to connect with students based on character, motivation, and leadership potential rather than a quick résumé exchange.
In closing, Lauren emphasized that these wins are not merely measured by statistics, comparisons, or rankings, but by how effectively the council is meeting the needs of industry, students, and communities. The council was encouraged to continue offering honest feedback and meaningful insight throughout the day, as their input will directly influence how future leaders are supported and developed. Appreciation was expressed for the trust and dedication shown over the past two years, and the meeting concluded by welcoming Dean Hu, with enthusiasm for continued collaboration in the pursuit of being persistently better.
Dr. Ivy Hu opened her remarks as the new Dean of the College of Architecture by expressing sincere gratitude to the CIAC for its unwavering support of the Department of Construction Science and the College of Architecture. She emphasized that the remarkable work of the council continues to elevate students, faculty, and programs in ways that are seen, felt, and deeply appreciated across the college. From the outset, she invited attendees to call her “Ivy,” signaling her commitment to approachability, collaboration, and partnership.
Ivy shared her academic roots in landscape architecture and urban planning, but noted that her connection to construction runs much deeper on a personal level. Through her husband’s work as a developer, she has developed not only a strong understanding of the construction industry, but also a genuine passion for it. She spoke with warmth about how the built environment, development, and construction are intertwined—expressing that through her marriage, her career, and now her leadership role, she feels firmly tied to the world of construction and is proud to be part of the Aggie community that shapes it.
Turning to her vision, Ivy praised the strength, momentum, and reputation of the Construction Science program. She was clear that she does not want to disrupt, change, or slow what is working so well. Instead, she emphasized her desire remove barriers that could stand in the way of continued progress. Her message was one of trust and partnership—affirming that the college stands ready to support the department in reaching new heights and continuing its trajectory of excellence. She then introduced Dr. Phil Lewis.
Dr. Phil Lewis addressed the council with an update on the department’s trajectory and a clear, forward-looking vision for the future of Construction Science at Texas A&M. He began by reflecting on the tremendous momentum the department has built in recent years, sharing measurable evidence of growth in academic programs, student enrollment, and scholarly activity. He acknowledged the growth under both Dr. Suermann (previous Department Head) and himself in the last 8 years. He noted that what was once a single undergraduate program has now expanded into a robust portfolio that serves learners at multiple stages and in multiple locations—ranging from College Station to McAllen and now reaching students globally through online graduate education. This widening academic footprint, he emphasized, positions the department to better meet both student demand and industry workforce needs in a rapidly evolving AEC landscape.
Dr. Lewis then highlighted the department’s rising enrollment, which has grown by nearly twenty percent, and the fifty percent increase in degrees awarded—an achievement he credited to student commitment, faculty dedication, and industry engagement. He acknowledged that such rapid growth brings challenges, including increased strain on faculty resources, but affirmed that the department remains committed to maintaining excellence in teaching and mentoring. He also celebrated a major success on the research front, noting that total research expenditures have nearly tripled, signaling that Construction Science at Texas A&M is not only educating future leaders, but also influencing the national dialogue through innovation, scholarship, and real-world problem solving.
Transitioning from where the department stands today to where it must go next, Dr. Lewis formally introduced the 2030 Strategic Plan, which succeeds the now-completed 2025 plan. He explained that the new plan will be concise, measurable, and fully aligned with both the College of Architecture and the university’s 2040 vision. He emphasized that the task force leading this effort represents a cross-section of faculty, staff, and CIAC leadership, ensuring that the plan reflects the voices of all key stakeholders—from students and families to industry partners, peer institutions, accrediting bodies, and the broader public the department serves.
Dr. Lewis revealed the central theme of the 2030 Plan: “Persistently Better!” He expanded on this message by describing it not as a slogan, but as a cultural standard and a promise to never settle for yesterday’s accomplishments. The plan is structured around seven interconnected areas of focus or “seven C’s”—Community, Capture, Curriculum, Careers, Clients, Culture, and Communication—each designed to push the department forward through continuous improvement. He explained that this means becoming the epicenter of construction education and workforce development, recruiting and retaining the best people, delivering flexible and innovative curriculum options, preparing graduates for diverse career paths, strengthening collaboration with CIAC and industry, cultivating a values-driven departmental culture, and boldly telling the department’s story through modern and strategic communication.
Looking ahead, Dr. Lewis outlined the immediate next steps, which include finalizing key performance indicators, completing the 2030 Plan document, developing a StoryBrand™-based marketing campaign, and presenting the full strategic plan to faculty by the end of the semester. He made it clear that execution—not planning—is where success will ultimately be measured, and he called on everyone in the room to continue offering honest insight, feedback, and support. He closed by thanking the CIAC for its partnership, stating that the department’s progress and its future ambitions are inseparable from the council’s involvement, feedback, and advocacy. He reaffirmed his belief that together, the department and CIAC will ensure that Construction Science at Texas A&M remains a national leader—persistently better, year after year, with industry needs as its compass and student success as its purpose.
Professor Hernan Guerra began his presentation by expressing his gratitude for the CIAC’s continued investment in the students, faculty, and mission of the Department of Construction Science. He noted that the momentum the council has built is not abstract—it is visible in student outcomes, industry engagement, membership growth, and the increasing national presence of the department. He then provided a comprehensive update on the state of the Department and its relation to our CIAC, beginning with the growth of CIAC membership. The council has reached an impressive scale across sectors, reflecting a broad cross-section of the construction ecosystem and reinforcing the network of support that surrounds students and faculty alike.
Professor Guerra transitioned to recruitment outcomes, highlighting strong attendance and participation rates at career fairs, with 87% of member companies represented—a powerful indicator of industry confidence in Aggie talent. He shared student engagement data from the internship program and exit surveys, emphasizing that these partnerships are directly contributing to workforce development and preparing graduates for meaningful career placement. He reiterated that the internship requirement remains one of the most transformative elements of the Aggie Construction Science experience, and that the level of industry responsiveness continues to exceed expectations.
He then shifted to celebrating the achievements that define the department’s identity beyond the classroom. Over the past academic cycle, students excelled in competitions across multiple regions and associations, fielding nine teams and returning with six first-place awards and one second-place finish, further strengthening Texas A&M’s standing as a national leader in construction education. Professor Guerra underscored that these victories are not merely trophies—they represent confidence, leadership development, and experiential learning in high-pressure environments.
Professor Guerra also reflected on the extraordinary generosity of CIAC members and the culture of giving that has flourished from 2021 through 2025. He celebrated the completion of major fundraising milestones and shared that the first commemorative pavers were installed in October 2025, symbolizing the lasting legacy of members who believe in supporting the next generation of Aggie constructors. He encouraged continued involvement, reminding the council that every dollar invested expands student opportunity, strengthens programming, and unlocks experiences that can change the trajectory of a young professional’s life.
Looking ahead, Professor Guerra discussed several forward-facing initiatives designed to elevate the department’s impact. He announced the launch of the Construction Innovation Certificate, which opens new collaboration opportunities for CIAC companies in 2026 and expands professional education offerings. He also outlined the international pilot partnership with Monterrey Tech, noting that the program attracted 25 industry participants, including four CEOs, for a week-long intensive focused on Lean practices, advanced systems, AI in construction, robotics, commissioning, and cultural immersion—further evidence that Aggie construction education is expanding across borders.
At this point, Professor Guerra invited Professor Larry Fickel to share a brief update on the department’s 2025 Student Service Project, reinforcing that service is a core Aggie value and a defining element of how COSC students give back. Professor Fickel informed the CIAC of last year’s successful effort and announced the department’s next major service initiative: building a home for a local resident named Evelyn, whose current living conditions are severely deteriorated and unsafe. The project will unite students, faculty, industry partners, and community organizations, leveraging CIAC financial support and collaborative partnerships with Rebuilding Together and Habitat for Humanity. Professor Fickel emphasized that this initiative will not only change one woman’s life forever, but will also create an unforgettable hands-on learning experience—one that teaches leadership, humility, compassion, and community stewardship in ways no classroom ever could.
Professor Guerra then previewed the department’s upcoming communication and engagement initiatives, beginning with the launch of the new CIAC bi-yearly online newsletter and a full calendar of key CIAC dates through 2028. He explained that the purpose of the newsletter is to enhance transparency, strengthen connection with members, and ensure that every CIAC partner has direct visibility into the impact of their support. This second edition—scheduled for distribution to all CIAC members before the end of the year—will feature updates on endowed scholarships, competition team schedules and results, major departmental milestones, industry engagement opportunities, upcoming CIAC events, faculty and student spotlights, and articles highlighting innovation, research, and national recognition. Professor Guerra emphasized that this newsletter will serve as a central communication tool moving forward, helping keep members informed, inspired, and continually connected to the mission and momentum of the program.
To highlight the department’s growing national presence, Professor Guerra then introduced Dr. David Jeong, who provided an update on the department’s role as co-host of the 2026 CI&CRC Joint Conference, with sponsorship opportunities now officially open. Dr. Jeong spoke enthusiastically about the significance of this event, calling it one of the premier construction research and education conferences in the country—an opportunity that will position Texas A&M and the CIAC at the forefront of construction learning leadership in the AEC industry. He shared that the conference will be held in San Antonio in March 2026, and underscored the importance of strong representation from both the department and CIAC member companies. This, he noted, is a rare moment for Aggies to shape the national conversation on construction education, innovation, and workforce development.
To continue the theme of innovation, Dr. Jeong invited Dr. Zhenyu Zhang to provide an update on the CIAC-funded Innovation Ideas Competition and Research Program (I2CRP) for COSC interns. Dr. Zhang celebrated the creativity, rigor, and forward-thinking approaches demonstrated by student participants, and proudly recognized the 2025 I2CRP winners—Manuel Hernandez, Bryan Eubanks, Sage Schaefer, and Stefan Plotini. He emphasized that programs like I2CRP are essential in preparing students to lead industry transformation, reinforcing that innovation must remain at the heart of the department’s identity and strategic direction.
Professor Guerra closed by thanking the council once again for its trust, partnership, and action. He emphasized that Industry Relations is only as strong as the industry that stands beside it, and that CIAC remains the department’s strongest strategic advantage. With continued collaboration, he affirmed, the department will not only sustain its current momentum—but accelerate it.
At around 9:40 a.m., going a few minutes behind schedule, the group transitioned into breakout sessions, followed by lunch at noon.
During the lunch hour, following the breakout sessions, CIAC companies participated in the department’s first-ever Flip Career Fair, an event designed to reverse the traditional recruiting dynamic and give students the platform. Approximately twenty-five COSC students showcased their accomplishments, goals, and personal stories, engaging employers directly as they sought Spring 2026 internships and full-time positions for December 2025 graduates. This “event within the event” created an energetic and personal networking atmosphere, allowing companies to connect with students beyond their résumés and empowering students to demonstrate who they are—not just what is written on paper—while building meaningful professional relationships that may lead to their next career step.
The CIAC reconvened at 1pm to listen to the executive committee reports.
Development Committee
Jeff Higdon, Dynamic Systems and Chair of the Development Committee, introduced our Foundation representative, Evelyn Rhoades, who discussed giving opportunities and logistics. Richard Palmer, Faculty Representative, discussed the need for refining and clarifying the CIAC Departmental Support Request process, particularly the expectations and requirements needed when submitting business cases for funding. The committee discussed the importance of establishing a more structured and transparent framework that clearly communicates specifications, justification standards, measurable outcomes, and alignment with CIAC priorities. The goal is to ensure that future funding requests are easier to evaluate, compare, and approve—ultimately allowing CIAC dollars to be invested in ways that are strategic, accountable, and impactful for students, faculty, and the department. Examples included the Resilient Modular Residential Project which Julie Hartell reviewed, facilities for Competition Team practice sessions, and community outreach projects such as the home replacement Larry Fickel introduced.
The committee discussed ways to improve communication with CIAC members and it was suggested that finding an advocate at each member firm to get the word out and circulate the newsletter
The committee also engaged in a productive conversation regarding faculty and industry awards, exploring opportunities to better recognize excellence, service, and innovation within the CIAC community. Members discussed potential award categories, criteria, and timelines, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging those who advance the mission of the department and elevate the reputation of Texas A&M within the AEC industry. The committee will continue developing both topics in preparation for recommendations to be brought forward at a future CIAC meeting.
The CIAC newsletter was discussed and it was suggested that an advocate at each CIAC firm be sent the newsletter for it to get more widely distributed to Former Students.
Curriculum Committee
Kendall Pouland, Build Better Ways and Chair of the Curriculum Subcommittee convened to evaluate current initiatives and explore future opportunities to strengthen academic offerings and workforce alignment within the Department of Construction Science. The discussion began with a review of the Construction Management Apprenticeship Program (CMAP), reflecting on its performance over the summer and considering strategies for improvement and growth. Committee members shared thoughtful questions and recommendations, including the potential to expand industry partnerships with organizations such as Mustang Cat, John Deere, and Industrial Training International (ITI) to incorporate equipment simulators into CMAP training modules. The group also expressed support for developing a comprehensive Career Roadmap that illustrates student advancement from entry-level roles through long-term professional pathways—an initiative intended to aid recruitment efforts, manage student expectations, and help employers communicate progression opportunities to future hires.
The conversation then transitioned to the upcoming Workforce Development Symposium, aimed at assessing industry interest in continuing education and employee development programs. The department affirmed its readiness to support workforce-driven training, provided there is adequate company participation. Subcommittee members exchanged ideas regarding delivery methods—including short courses, week-long intensives, live or virtual formats, and traveling seminars—and emphasized the importance of blending technical content with soft-skill development in areas such as accountability, communication, and leadership. The committee also discussed collaborating with AGC, ABC, ASA, Frontline Leadership, and TEES to ensure training remains industry-relevant. In addition, there was strong enthusiasm for expanding advanced credentials, aligning CEU or micro-credential opportunities with the online master’s program to better serve working professionals and encouraging companies to leverage tuition-assistance programs for employee advancement. The committee agreed that Learning & Development leaders from CIAC companies should be invited to participate in the symposium, potentially aligning it with next summer’s Research and Innovation Workshop.
The session concluded with a review of technology integration in the curriculum, highlighting ongoing advancements in surveying through the Trimble Program and a new Advanced Surveying course, expanded 3D plan reading and quantification tools in estimating classes, and growing interest in AI applications for preconstruction workflows. Members also expressed support for incorporating industry-standard software such as HCSS HeavyBid or HeavyJob into coursework to better prepare students for field-ready responsibilities upon graduation. The committee voiced strong encouragement for continued innovation in this area, reinforcing the belief that technology-forward instruction remains essential to meeting industry expectations and maintaining the department’s competitive edge
Membership Committee
Kyle Wortham, Southwestern Services and Interim Chair of the Membership Committee reported that their work session focused on three key action items related to leadership continuity and governance. First, the committee successfully selected this year’s Constructor Hall of Fame honoree, continuing the tradition of recognizing individuals whose contributions have significantly strengthened the department, the CIAC, and the construction industry. Following this decision, the committee moved to its second task, reviewing leadership applications and recommending appointments to fill two Executive Committee vacancies as well as roles created through two member promotions. As part of these recommendations, Robert Hodges will serve as the next President of the CIAC, while Kendall Pouland will transition into the role of Vice President. In addition, the CIAC approved the committee’s recommendation of Kyle Wortham as the new Membership Committee Chair and Erik Emerson as the new Curriculum Committee Chair, ensuring continued leadership across all working groups.
The committee’s third and most substantial agenda item was a comprehensive review of proposed bylaw updates, which were formally presented to the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee has reviewed and approved the revisions, clearing the way for the next step—membership-wide voting. As a result, an email will now be sent to all voting CIAC members, providing access to the updated bylaws and an opportunity to cast a vote to either approve or oppose the proposed changes. To support a clear and transparent review process, all edits have been color-coded, with yellow identifying substantive changes and gray marking non-substantive editorial revisions such as formatting, punctuation, grammar, and wording adjustments that do not alter meaning. Members are asked to review the document carefully and submit their vote by November 21st, with a reminder email scheduled for November 20th before voting closes. The committee expressed appreciation in advance for the membership’s time, attention, and participation in shaping the future of the CIAC through this important governance process.
Budget Committee
Robert Hodges, Archer Western and Chair of the Budget Subcommittee began by reviewing the final projected expenses for 2025, confirming that year-end spending is expected to total $1,146,700.00 against the approved 2025 budget of $1,641,666.00. The committee noted that the CIAC will close the year with a positive balance of $494,966, reflecting disciplined financial stewardship and responsible use of funds in support of core initiatives, including student programming, industry engagement, competitions, and administrative support. The subcommittee expressed confidence that expenditures for the remainder of the year will remain aligned with strategic priorities and within approved thresholds.
The committee then turned its attention to the 2026 proposed budget, which anticipates $1,519,125 in total expenditures within an approved budget of $1,582,629, resulting in a projected year-end balance of $63,504. After discussion, the subcommittee agreed that the proposed 2026 budget responsibly positions the CIAC to sustain programming, enhance student opportunities, and support departmental initiatives throughout the coming year. The subcommittee recommended moving the 2026 budget forward for approval, noting that continued fiscal discipline—paired with strategic investment—will allow the CIAC to remain mission-focused and impact-driven.
2026 CIAC Budget
Graduate and Research Committee
The Graduate and Research Subcommittee focused its session on planning the 3rd CIAC Research & Innovation Workshop, with discussion centered on enhancing the attendee experience and increasing industry impact. The committee confirmed that the workshop will be held once again in College Station in May 2026 and agreed that a more structured planning process will be key to elevating the event. To support this effort, the subcommittee established a task force that will meet monthly with Dr. David Jeong and Professor Hernan Guerra to further develop workshop topics, refine agendas, and coordinate logistics to ensure that the event continues to grow in both quality and relevance for CIAC partners, faculty, and students.
In addition to planning the workshop, the subcommittee reviewed the record-breaking attendance from the CIAC Summer Lunch Series held in Dallas, Houston, and Austin, noting the strong interest and high engagement demonstrated across the state. Based on this success, the committee expressed support for taking the Research & Innovation Workshop “on the road” in 2027 as a strategy to expand participation and reach new industry audiences. This concept will be further evaluated throughout 2026, with a final decision to be brought forward at the Fall 2026 CIAC Board Meeting. The committee concluded that continued innovation, broader outreach, and intentional planning will be critical to maximizing the value of research-focused programming for the CIAC and the department moving forward.
Lauren Collins concluded the meeting shortly after 1:45 p.m.