Greg Bartholomew Memorial Scholarship

My decision to pursue a career in civil engineering comes from a lifelong interest in construction and a desire to build projects that positively impact communities. Growing up, I was fascinated by how roads, bridges, and other infrastructure were designed and constructed. As I learned more about the field, I realized that civil engineering offered a unique opportunity to combine problem-solving, mathematics, and hands-on construction to create projects that serve people every day. After completing my first year as a civil engineering student at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, I am more confident than ever that I have chosen the right career path. One of the biggest influences on my decision to pursue civil engineering has been my family. My father has worked for many years as a carpenter and pile driver, helping construct bridges, water treatment facilities, and other major infrastructure projects throughout California. Growing up, I heard stories about the challenges of construction, the importance of teamwork, and the pride that comes from building something that will serve a community for decades. Watching my father's dedication to his work gave me a firsthand appreciation for the construction industry and the impact it has on society. My mother, a high school math teacher, also played an important role in shaping my interests. She encouraged me to develop strong problem-solving skills and showed me how mathematics can be applied to real-world situations. Together, my parents inspired me to pursue a career that combines technical knowledge with practical application. My long term goal is to work in the construction side of civil engineering, with a particular interest in transportation infrastructure, bridges, and heavy civil construction. I am also pursuing a minor in construction management because I want to understand both the engineering and project management aspects of the industry. I hope to eventually take on leadership roles where I can oversee large scale infrastructure projects from design through construction. The concrete paving and civil engineering industries are essential to the growth and success of our communities. Every road, bridge, airport, and transportation system depends on the work of engineers and construction professionals. As infrastructure across the country continues to age, there will be an increasing need for skilled engineers who can design and build safe, durable, and sustainable projects. My goal is to contribute to that effort by helping construct infrastructure that improves transportation, supports economic growth, and serves future generations. Receiving this scholarship would help me continue pursuing that goal while reducing the financial burden of earning my degree. I am committed to completing my education, building upon the values of hard work and perseverance that my family has instilled in me, and contributing to the future of the civil engineering and construction industries.