Southern Utah University's Construction Management team made history by securing first place in the Design Build category at the Associated Schools of Construction National Construction Management Competition in Reno, Nevada. This win marks the first time SUU has achieved this distinction since 2013.

The university sent 28 students to compete at the prestigious event, where over 1,800 students from 241 teams and 57 universities across 22 states participated. SUU's Design Build team outshone 10 other top-tier teams, clinching the win with both a team trophy and individual awards.

“Winning first-place in a national competition like ASC Reno is more than just a trophy, it’s a testament to the strength, grit, and collaboration of SUU’s Construction Management program,” said Kayla Schaugaard, the senior construction management student and Design Build team lead. “Competing against universities across the country and emerging at the top proves that SUU students aren’t just keeping up — we’re taking the lead.”

The team’s success was not only due to their skills but also the dedication and support of SUU’s faculty. The professors held students to high standards, treating the competition like a real-world job site.

“It can’t be overstated the amount of work and dedication these students put in for this amazing opportunity,” said Jared Baker, SUU Construction Management Professor. “These students combine their shared coursework education, hands-on experience, and project logic, partnering it with collaboration and teamwork to work through an entire real-life project in approximately 16 hours. The experience of completing a well-thought-out project from concept to completion is the real reward; the win is the validation of their education and dedication.”

The students crafted a solid, polished proposal with the knowledge and guidance provided by their professors.

“This win wasn't just about solving a construction problem, it was about coming together as a team to strategize and collaborate,” Schaugaard said. “Our professors’ guidance and belief in us laid the foundation for our success. They challenged us when we needed it, encouraged us when we hit roadblocks, and celebrated every breakthrough alongside us.”

The competition is a renowned event in the construction education sector, offering real-world challenges sponsored by leading construction companies. Teams have 16 hours to develop a project estimate, schedule, site logistics, safety protocols, value engineering, and risk assessment. They then present their completed bid the following morning to a panel of industry professionals.

SUU’s victory underscores the university’s reputation for career-focused education and highlights the dedication, skill, and teamwork of its students and faculty.

Originally reported by St George News.