WASHINTON, D.C., Oct. 9, 2025 — Students from Pennsylvania College of Technology’s Construction Management Association were honored guests at a series of industry activities in the Washington, D.C., area, including a black-tie gala and a tour of DeWalt’s headquarters, as part of the recognition they received as Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) 2025 Student Chapter of the Year. This marks the second consecutive year the student organization has earned the prestigious title.
Four students—Aaron A. Almony (Bel Air, MD), James C. Fretz (Collegeville, PA), Emilio H. Stipe (Pottstown, PA), and Jason Wiedl (West Pittston, PA)—attended ABC’s conference and its sold-out 75th Anniversary Gala, which featured former President George W. Bush among the attendees.
“During the ABC event, I enjoyed networking with ABC members from across the country that work in many different roles within the construction industry,” Almony said. “This opportunity allowed me to build my professional network and has opened the door to even more job opportunities, spanning from local companies to nationwide firms.”
The students’ experience concluded with a visit to DeWalt’s headquarters in Towson, Maryland, where eight members of the Construction Management Association toured the facilities, participated in hands-on demonstrations, and engaged with leaders, engineers, and product managers.
“Touring the DeWalt facilities was an awesome opportunity our group was afforded after being awarded the ABC Student Chapter of the Year. I am very thankful for the folks at ABC, and the DeWalt team for putting the visit together and thoughtfully answering all of our questions during our visit,” said Fretz.
Students explored DeWalt’s research and development labs, the Customer Experience and Innovation Center, and learned about the latest tools and technologies shaping the construction industry.
“I enjoyed getting to experience the technology and innovation that happens at Stanley Black & Decker and DeWalt,” said Alex N. Hernandez, another member of the group. “From the R&D that goes into creating new tools, to the testing of components and systems that are a part of each tool, I was blown away. I can say that DeWalt has a strong commitment to innovation and getting new technology out on the market in an effort to make a difference in the construction industry.”
The students also had the chance to network with ABC staff including Haley Moyers, director of workforce programs and initiatives, and Charlie Asmar, director of strategic partnerships, business partnerships, and sponsorships, gaining insights into career pathways and the future of construction management.
Wayne R. Sheppard, assistant professor of construction management and advisor to the student association, emphasized the educational impact: “This experience not only allows students to see cutting-edge technology and operations firsthand but also strengthens their professional network, which is invaluable for future career development.”
The visit highlights the benefits of winning ABC’s Student Chapter of the Year, which include exclusive access to industry events, leadership networking, and corporate tours—providing students with practical experience that complements their academic studies.
For more information about Penn College’s bachelor’s degree in construction management, visit www.pct.edu/construction.
Originally reported by Penn College News.
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