Support for emerging construction professionals remains a key workforce-development focus as industry organizations invest in students entering mechanical construction. Breyden Lane, a 2026 Washington State University construction management graduate, has received the Ann Mattheis Memorial Scholarship.
Lane became active in his student chapter in 2025 while completing his construction management studies. He served as the chapter’s event coordinator and participated in the MCAA Student Chapter Competition.
His industry experience includes two summer internships with McKinstry, where he gained exposure to mechanical construction. After graduating in May, Lane joined Southland Industries as a project engineer.
The scholarship provides $2,500 to support students and is named after Ann Mattheis, who previously served as a director of the Career Development/GreatFutures program.
The scholarship is administered through the John R. Gentille Foundation and recognizes students pursuing careers connected to the mechanical construction industry.
Lane’s transition from construction management education and internships into a project engineering position illustrates the connection between academic programs, student organizations, internships and entry-level construction careers.
Student competitions and industry chapter activities also provide opportunities for construction management students to gain exposure to mechanical systems and develop professional industry relationships.
Construction scholarships and student-industry programs provide financial and professional support for students entering the construction workforce. For mechanical contractors, these programs can help connect construction management graduates with internships, project roles and industry organizations.
Lane’s scholarship recognition also highlights the role of industry experience during college in preparing graduates for project engineering and other early-career construction positions.
Source: MCAA.
