Sources: Brian Schrotenboer, bts03@k-state.edu; Ryan Lund, rclund@k-state.edu; and David Fritchen, 785-532-5964, dfritch@k-state.edu
Hometown interest: Leonardville and Overland Park, Kan.; and Wildwood, Mo.
News release prepared by: Tyler Sharp, 785-532-2535, tmsharp@k-state.edu
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Building excellence: Construction science students earn scholarships from regional organization
MANHATTAN -- Two Kansas State University construction science students have received scholarships from the Builders' Association, a trade organization that serves the commercial construction industry in Kansas and Missouri.
Ryan Lund, junior, Leonardville, received the Firebaugh Construction Inc. Scholarship. The Overland Park-based specialty contractor endowed the scholarship fund in 2001 to help bring young people into the construction industry.
Brian Schrotenboer, senior, Wildwood,Mo., received the James L. "Skip" Hutton Jr. Scholarship. Named in honor of Hutton, a retired president of the Builders' Association, the scholarship was created by several contractors to recognize Hutton's service to the organization.
Lund is active in the Christian Challenge, a university campus ministry. He is also involved in the student chapter of the Associated General Contractors. He said he is appreciative of the personal growth he has experienced as a member of both organizations.
"I have loved being involved with the Christian Challenge as a way to grow in my faith through the biblical teaching, the community and the opportunities for service I found in the organization," Lund said. "Being involved in Associated General Contractors has given me the chance for hands-on learning experience in construction and the opportunity to build better relationships with my fellow students, professors and partners in the industry -- all of which has been very beneficial for me."
Lund plans to graduate in spring 2014. He would like to work in residential construction.
Schrotenboer is president of the student chapter of the Associated General Contractors and will represent the chapter at its upcoming national convention. He also planned the organization's alternative spring break trip to Joplin, Mo. In addition, he is as an ambassador for the department of architectural engineering and construction science.
Receiving the scholarship is a benefit for Schrotenboer as an out-of-state student.
"While there are construction schools in Missouri, I felt that K-State was the better fit and it would be worth the added cost of attending an out-of-state school," Schrotenboer said. "So scholarships like this truly are a huge blessing for me and my family."
Following his planned graduation in May 2013, Schrotenboer wants to work as a general contractor.
David Fritchen, professor and head of the department of architectural engineering and construction science, says both students deserve the recognition and reward for their good work.
"The scholarships awarded by the Builders' Association are particularly meaningful as they are sponsored by leaders in the construction industry that we serve," Fritchen said. "The commitment of the Builders' Association to our students and construction education is truly appreciated and notable as the association celebrates its 125th anniversary."
The Builders' Association plays a major role in the advancement of the construction industry and work force in the Kansas City area.
