University construction program offers certification

Southwest Missouri State University has recently selected Dr. Scott Amos to lead the department of technology.

Amos, a registered professional engineer and certified professional constructor, brings significant construction management experience and strong academic credentials to the university.

He is committed to serving the construction industry in a professional and ethical manner, and looks forward to encouraging the continued development of and education of tomorrow's construction industry leaders.

His first goal is a major curriculum overhaul aimed at providing graduates the unique technical and managerial knowledge and skills required to meet increasing industry challenges and changes while enhancing the professionalism of the constructor to the public, client and employer.

The management of construction has changed and expanded dramatically in the 20th century. These changes have resulted in increased responsibilities and obligations for the professional constructor.

The new curriculum, based on an established national standard, provides an industry-recognized certification of constructor skills and knowledge, analysis of individual strengths and weaknesses as determined by the examination process, a marketable credential to an employer, prospective employer or client, and a systematic plan of continuing professional development for career advancement.

An online masters degree in project management, and degree completion opportunities for community college graduates are among the many other innovative projects that are under way.

This year, six SMSU students are benefiting from scholarships awarded by the Springfield Contractors Association and its members. They are Clayton Smith, Jared Walker, Ryan Osborn, Andrea Cook, Nick Hansen and Lucas Larue.

The Construction Club, under the leadership of Jared Walker, is busy developing affiliations with several national professional organizations to include Associated General Contractors and the National Association of Home Builders.

The students also are preparing for participation in regional and national construction management competitions.

The students, faculty and staff of SMSU salute the construction industry and express our sincere appreciation for the many contributions it has made to our academic programs.

(The preceding article was provided by Scott Amos on behalf of the SMSU Construction Club and department of technology.)