University of Louisiana at Lafayette Launches Construction Management Program

News Summary

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is set to launch a groundbreaking construction management program this fall. This initiative aims to address the demand for skilled professionals in Louisiana’s construction industry by equipping students with essential skills. Collaborations with local firms like J.B. Mouton Construction and The Lemoine Company enhance the program’s practical focus, fostering community development and workforce growth in the Acadiana region.

University of Louisiana at Lafayette Introduces First Construction Management Program

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is set to launch a groundbreaking construction management program this fall, aiming to foster the development of the next generation of construction leaders in Acadiana. This program is a significant advancement for the local construction industry, addressing the growing needs for skilled professionals within the region.

With over 40 students already enrolled for the fall 2025 semester, this innovative curriculum will offer a broad degree in general construction management, supplemented with embedded business minors. The program has been designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of both construction processes and essential business principles, ultimately equipping them to take on leadership roles in the industry.

One of the cornerstones of this initiative is the collaboration with two prominent local construction companies: J.B. Mouton Construction and The Lemoine Company. This partnership brings together key players in the industry to support the program, highlighting the potential of collaboration over competition. By joining forces, these companies aim to address workforce needs while providing valuable real-world experiences for students pursuing this degree.

The President of J.B. Mouton Construction expressed that while they are competitors in the local construction market, the collaboration serves a larger purpose by benefiting the community as a whole. As they continue their work on projects like the Cajun Field, they recognize the importance of nurturing talent that can contribute positively to the local economy.

Meanwhile, The Lemoine Company is actively engaged in constructing the new Our Lady of Wisdom Church. Their involvement in the program illustrates their commitment to fostering educational opportunities and cultivating potential talent in the region. The hands-on approach taken by both companies allows part-time workers to immerse themselves in the actual life cycle of construction projects, enriching their practical knowledge and experience.

The main objective of the new construction management program is to retain talented individuals within the Acadiana community. By equipping young engineers with the necessary skills and knowledge, the initiative strives to ensure that local graduates contribute to the development of the area. This is especially crucial in light of the increasing demands facing the construction industry, which requires a workforce that is not only skilled but also well-prepared to handle the challenges of modern projects.

The significance of the program was further highlighted by insights from members of the UL College of Engineering. It was emphasized that fostering local talent is imperative, as many trained engineers tend to seek opportunities outside Louisiana. This program aims to create pathways that encourage graduates to remain in Acadiana, thus playing a crucial role in the long-term growth of the local economy.

The introduction of this construction management program is seen as a major step forward for both the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and the Acadiana construction community. By providing robust educational resources and practical experiences, it has the potential to dramatically impact the future of the industry. The collaboration between educational institutions and local companies stands as a promising model for future partnerships aimed at addressing workforce challenges across various sectors in the region.

In summary, the launch of the construction management program represents a significant milestone for the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and further solidifies the ties between local educational institutions and the construction industry. With the support of notable companies in the sector and a focus on retaining local talent, Acadiana is on track to enhance its construction workforce and build a stronger foundation for the future.

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Additional Resources

• KADN: UL Construction Management Program
• KLFY: One Acadiana Pilot Program for Inmates
• The Advertiser: One Acadiana Secures Grant
• The Advocate: Lafayette Parish Schools Funding
• KATC: Catholic Charities New Food Bank
• Wikipedia: Construction Management
• Google Search: Construction Training
• Google Scholar: Construction Management Programs
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Construction
• Google News: Acadiana Construction Projects