Earlier this summer, Marek sponsored the very first Texas A&M Summer Construction Academy, in partnership with TAMU Professor Dr. Edelmiro Escamilla, the TAMU College of Construction Science, and the GEAR UP Program.
This career exploration program is part of a larger research initiative led by Dr. Escamilla’s team and designed to introduce and change the perception of careers in construction by working with both high school students and their families.
Twenty-five high school students from Laredo and their parents were invited to a week-long camp starting in Laredo and wrapping up in College Station, with one day in Houston. During the first part of the camp, Marek leaders Jorge Rodriguez and Arron Martinez met with students at the TAMU International campus in Laredo for career Q&A while the students were introduced to construction science concepts by Dr. Escamilla’s team. And as Dr. Escamilla promised the students, the program was designed with fun in mind – including team and project-based activities and socials in the evenings.
That Friday, students and parents visited Marek’s headquarters in Houston for lunch, a tour, and interactive work stations including: BIM technology and total station layout, virtual reality goggles, safety tips and PPE, scissor lifts, and hand tools. After a night at the Galleria, students wrapped up their trip at A&M’s Construction Science building and the Marek Safety Lab on campus.
Dr. Escamilla’s team led six additional Construction Management Academies with corporate partners throughout the summer. For summer 2017, Dr. Escamilla’s team is exploring the development of a skilled trades summer academy program based in Houston.