Aggie CMAP: A Fast Track Into Construction Careers
Texas A&M University’s Aggie Construction Management Apprenticeship Program (CMAP) introduces new opportunities for recent high school graduates, veterans and early-career professionals to begin building their careers in construction through an accelerated training program.
Funded by a $2 million U.S. Department of Labor grant, Texas A&M launched the CMAP program to help address the state’s urgent workforce needs. The construction industry in Texas faces significant labor shortages, with demand for both skilled tradespeople and project managers.
CMAP is designed as an entry point into the industry, preparing students for immediate workforce needs while also creating a bridge to Texas A&M’s bachelor’s and graduate programs in construction science.
Students enrolled in CMAP attend classes and activities at both the main campus and the RELLIS campus. Students spend eight weeks in the classroom and hands-on workshops, followed by a 16-week paid internship with leading Texas construction companies.
For those enrolled, CMAP is the first step toward their construction careers and advancement into project management or leadership roles.
Construction Training with Hands-On Learning and Safety Training
The first cohort of eight students began the program in June, participating in a mix of lectures and practical activities. Organizers said the small class size allowed instructors to tailor lessons and give students individual attention.
Students were instructed by Texas A&M faculty and staff from the Department of Construction Science, along with local industry professionals. They learned the basics of plumbing, HVAC and electrical wiring, poured concrete for sidewalks and even built a woodshed.
“I’ve been able to learn way more than I thought I could, especially in eight weeks,” said Sebastian Lopez, a CMAP student. “I just wanted to learn as much as I could about construction and leave with something new that I didn’t know before.”
In addition to technical skills, students earned their OSHA 30 certification and completed first aid and CPR training. During first aid classes, students practiced wrapping wounds with first aid tools and learned critical safety protocols for construction sites.
Completing the classroom component also helped students learn about their ideal career paths.
“When I first started this program, I thought it was just about general contracting,” said Aidan Cortez, a CMAP student. “I realized there are so many paths — mechanical, electrical, plumbing, the trades — where you can really spread your wings, work for different companies and work your way up.”
Shelley Smith serves as assistant head of the Department of Construction Science. Smith said she feels very hopeful about the future of students after they graduate from the program.
“A lot of these students will be project managers or superintendents at some point,” Smith said. “I have no doubt about that.”
Smith said CMAP offers that first step, while Texas A&M’s four-year and graduate programs provide the advanced education needed for long-term leadership.
Paid Construction Internships and Industry Mentorship in Texas
The program’s first year was made possible through partnerships with MYCON General Contractors, Dynamic Systems and other industry supporters, who contributed materials and mentors.
To prepare students for internships, CMAP hosted a private career fair where students had the opportunity to interview directly with 14 companies. Stacie Watson, the program’s industry relations coordinator, said that by the fourth week, students were already preparing for the event, with instructors helping them tailor resumes ahead of time.
“They had great interviews,” Watson said. “The companies were impressed with their ability to answer questions with such a quick [turnaround].”
All students were successfully matched with paid internships, where they are paired with internal mentors to guide their growth, giving them a jump start on their careers in construction.
Future Careers in Construction Management
Students will return to College Station in December to receive their completion certificates at a graduation ceremony.
CMAP plans to expand in the coming years to Prairie View and possibly McAllen. Organizers are also pursuing accreditation with the American Council for Construction Education and the U.S. Department of Labor, which requires the program to operate for at least a year before formal recognition as an apprenticeship program.
