As the College of Technology's December 2011 graduates complete their time at Purdue, we are profiling a few and finding out their future plans and how they arrived at this point in their lives. Commencement is December 18, 2011. 
Kip Goulder, Cleveland, Ohio Job: Project Estimator for APG Electric Inc. in Clearwater, Fla. Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in building construction management with concentrations in electrical and healthcare construction
- ASHE Healthcare Construction Certificate
Job duties: I will be responsible for determining labor and material costs, as well as resource needs, to complete the electrical work required on our projects. I will also be negotiating with vendors and subcontractors to arrive at our bid price. Typically, our work involves healthcare and higher education facilities. Purdue classes that helped Kip for his job:
- BCM 216: Electrical Construction
- BCM 250: Contracts and Documents
- BCM 316: Electrical Estimating
- BCM 417: Design/Build for MEP Contractors
- BCM 475: Construction Costs
Other ways the College of Technology and/or Purdue provided preparation and assistance: Opportunities to take leadership positions and be involved with industry professionals through student organizations. The team-heavy atmosphere really taught me how to work well with others. Faculty with industry experience really enhanced the learning by relating the course content to real-world situations. Thanks go to:
- My classmates – So many of these guys and girls have made an impact on me over the years. There really is a strong sense of camaraderie in the BCM Department, and my classmates made a difference both in and outside of the classroom. They have been a fun group to be with, and I am thankful for knowing every one of them.
- The BCM faculty and staff – There were many times these folks felt more like colleagues and friends than just professors. Brad Benhart, Brian Loss, Steve Schaffner, Greg Lasker, James Jenkins, and Dawn Lamb were just a few from this group who made a positive impact on me, both in and outside the classroom. They have been great mentors and helped give me the tools to succeed.
- My parents and grandparents – From before I started at Purdue, all the way through, they have supported me 100% and really gave me the opportunity to be here. I cannot thank them enough.
- The APG team – These are the men and women I have been going to school for. Their encouragement over the years has given me purpose to make the moves that brought me to where I am today. Now, I look forward to serving them.