Clarkson Construction Engineering Students Earn More Than $41,000 in National, State Scholarships

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Five Clarkson University students have earned more than $41,000 in competitive national and state scholarships recognizing academic excellence, leadership and commitment to careers in construction engineering and civil engineering.

"It's exciting to see our students earn tens of thousands of dollars in scholarships beyond traditional financial aid each year," said Erik Backus, Howard E. Lechler Director of Construction Engineering Management. "These awards reflect the outstanding work of our students and the strength of the industry partnerships that support Clarkson's construction engineering program."

Leading this year's honors, Michele LaTour '28 of Redfield received a $10,000 scholarship from the National Academy of Construction, one of only six awarded nationwide in 2026. The scholarship recognizes academic achievement, leadership and campus involvement. LaTour also has been invited to the National Academy of Construction Annual Meeting in Nashville, Tennessee.

Clarkson students Kaitlinn Campana '27 of Yorktown Heights and Johnathan Klick '28 of Manlius each earned $12,500 scholarships from The Moles, one of the construction industry's most prestigious organizations. The awards support students pursuing careers in heavy civil construction and place recipients among a select group of future industry leaders. Clarkson is among fewer than 30 universities invited to participate in The Moles Scholarship Program, reflecting the university's national reputation in construction education.

"I am very grateful to receive this scholarship from The Moles," Klick said. "It is an honor to be recognized by an organization with such a strong connection to the construction industry. The scholarship will allow me to focus on my classes, professional development and involvement in activities like Steel Bridge and the CEM SPEED team."

The Associated General Contractors of New York State also recognized two Clarkson students. David Fields '27 of Watervliet and Emily Milleville '27 of Lockport each received $3,000 scholarships as part of the organization's 100th anniversary scholarship program, which honors students demonstrating academic excellence and strong potential in the construction industry.

Clarkson's Construction Engineering Management program, housed in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, combines rigorous academics with extensive industry engagement. Over the past decade, the program has maintained a 100% job placement rate within three months of graduation, with graduates earning an average starting salary of more than $76,000.

Learn more about Clarkson's Construction Engineering Management program at clarkson.edu/cem.