Connor Semenko

Connor Semenko says his family’s connection to construction, not to mention the long-standing recognition of the Del E. Webb School of Construction, led him to attend Arizona State University.

“My family works in construction, so I’ve had an interest in the field since I was really young,” Semenko says.

With his new bachelor’s degree in construction management and technology, Semenko aims to become a chief estimator for a heavy construction company and eventually start his own construction business. He enjoys knowing that the projects he builds, like roadways, bridges and tunnels, will be a part of everyday life.

While at ASU, Semenko put the skills he learned in the classroom to the test through internships and student competitions hosted by organizations such as The Associated of Schools of Construction. ASC connects construction educators and industry partners to develop more well-rounded curricula for construction students.

“It was a big accomplishment for me to be able to lead the heavy civil engineering team for the Rocky Mountain Region competition,” he says. “I just wanted everyone to be as successful as possible.”

Thanks to his professors and mentors, Semenko says he was prepared to take on the challenge.

“One thing I will take with me is to always ask questions,” he says. “I had so many amazing teachers, including Richard Standage, Aaron Cohen and James Ernzen, who were always helpful no matter how dumb I thought the question was. They taught me to always help people out and never to be afraid to ask questions.”

Semenko is grateful to have been selected for a Del E. Webb Scholarship that helped fund his education. He says he tried to show his dedication to the program by earning a dean’s list recognition each semester.

Following graduation, Semenko plans to return to his hometown of Reno, Nevada, and begin work at Q&D Construction, a general construction contractor.

Read about other exceptional graduates of the Fulton Schools’ Fall 2022 class here.