TEMPE, Ariz. – The construction industry is poised to grow dramatically during the next decade.

In order for projects to take shape, there is a connected demand for the skilled trade workers and the construction management personnel who are vital to each project’s success.

“People are getting hired left and right,” said Anthony Lamanna, Del E. Webb School of Construction Programs Chair and Sundt Professor of Alternative Delivery Methods and Sustainable Construction at Arizona State University. “We could graduate three times as many students and there would still be jobs available.”

In an effort to support students with more than just job placement upon graduation, the Del E. Webb school established the Industry Partner Circle (IPC). The circle is made up of industry partners from across the state that want to see construction students thrive. The industry partners provide funding for scholarships, endowed faculty positions and internship placements.

“We have created a pipeline for students to get the training they need,” Lamanna says. “It wouldn’t be possible without the industry support.”

As of June 2022, IPC has more than a dozen members, including INSURICA, Willmeng Construction and the PENTA Building Group.

In some cases, these companies are owned and operated by Del E. Webb alumni or employ many Del E. Webb graduates.