Purdue launches new construction management technology program model in Indianapolis

Purdue students in Indianapolis will gain the skills to be the future leaders of the construction industry. (Purdue University photo/John O’Malley)

As reported by Purdue News, Purdue University has formally launched the reimagined Construction Management Technology program in Indianapolis. This academic program is designed to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in construction, within the urban environment that can grant students the best hands-on experience possible.

Offered in Indianapolis through Purdue Polytechnic, the program will equip students with expertise in project management, budgeting, operations, and site safety—preparing them for leadership roles in a sector vital to the city’s $5 billion development pipeline.

“At Purdue Polytechnic, our goal is to develop industry-ready graduates who are equipped to tackle real-world challenges,” said Daniel Castro, Purdue Polytechnic’s dean. “This reimagined construction management technology program in Indianapolis, in partnership with the Indiana Department of Workforce Development, reflects our commitment to providing students with a rigorous curriculum that equips them to solve problems, improve processes and become thought leaders, and meaningful professional education and training that meets the essential demands of the growing construction industry.”

A key feature of the program is its emphasis on industry collaboration, including plans for a registered apprenticeship program where students can gain hands-on experience while earning a wage. Purdue is also exploring pre-apprenticeship opportunities for high school students in central Indiana, creating a direct pathway into the program.

“From listening to construction industry leaders throughout the city, we knew that there was an urgent need for skilled workers in this particular area,” said David Umulis, senior vice provost Purdue University for Indianapolis. “The reimagined construction management technology program underlines the core objective of our urban expansion in Indianapolis — to establish connections and opportunities for Purdue students in high-demand career fields while creating a direct pipeline of Boilermaker talent for employers in central Indiana.”

The first phase of the program will begin in fall 2025 for transitioning students, with a full freshman class expected in 2026-27. The initiative aligns with Purdue’s broader goals in Indianapolis, especially in the ways this curriculum is made to strengthen ties between students and regional employers to meet workforce demands.

Companies interested in partnering with Purdue for internships or co-op opportunities can contact Marcus Rogers, interim head of the School of Construction Management Technology, at rogersmk@purdue.edu.

Read the full story at Purdue News.

About Purdue University in Indianapolis

Purdue University in Indianapolis is a fully integrated expansion of West Lafayette, extending to central Indiana the academic rigor and accessible excellence for which Purdue is known. As the state’s only top 10 public university, most trusted university and most innovative university, Purdue is focused and committed to strengthening its presence in Indiana’s industrial and technological center. Purdue University in Indianapolis is creating an innovative, STEM-based collegiate experience by connecting future-ready Purdue students and faculty in Indianapolis to local businesses to accelerate Indiana’s STEM pipeline and tech ecosystem, fueling impact for our region and the world. Learn more at https://www.purdue.edu/indianapolis.

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