Much like the structure to a building, Purdue created a foundation that allowed me to grow in my career. No curriculum mirrors exactly what your chosen industry may require, but having the general classes in construction, along with the technical study, gave me a jump start over most other schools’ graduates.
Mike Dilts
Construction Management Technology '81, CCS in Business Administration '85
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Mike Dilts

Construction Management Technology '81, CCS in Business Administration '85
CEO and President for Shiel Sexton Company Inc.

Mike Dilts found his fit in Purdue’s construction management technology program, where he valued having professors who brought relevant industry experience to the classroom over focusing on theory-based learning.

“Much like the structure to a building, Purdue created a foundation that allowed me to grow in my career,” Dilts says. “No curriculum mirrors exactly what your chosen industry may require, but having the general classes in construction, along with the technical study, gave me a jump start over most other schools’ graduates.”

After graduation, Dilts worked for five years with a national contractor in St. Louis and Boston before joining Shiel Sexton Company Inc. There he worked his way through project management and business development, and held the position of COO before landing the role of CEO and president.

Now Dilts is responsible for assuring that operations meet and exceed the company’s goals and objectives. He serves as a catalyst to maximize Shiel Sexton’s operational results in estimating, preconstruction services, project management and construction supervision. His role in the company allows him to stay close to his Boilermaker roots.

“I grew up in Lafayette, so Purdue has always been in my blood,” Dilts explains. “Professionally, we are very involved with Purdue through recruitment, mentoring and hiring.”

Dilts’ work has a major impact on his community, which he finds very rewarding.

“Buildings and construction allow institutions to operate and thrive,” he explains. “All building sectors play a role in our quality of life from basic shelter, places of worship, school, factories and offices, to retail and transportation. Our industry touches every part of a community’s life.”