Anthony Sparkling is an Assistant Professor in Construction Management Technology (CMT) at Purdue University where he teaches courses in mechanical and electrical systems, electrical estimating, and electrical construction. His research interests include teams, organizations, contract governance, organizational processes, project/team performance and behavioral feedback systems. He has a growing interest in the skilled-trades shortage and future workforce development in the United States.
Prior to joining the CMT department at Purdue, Anthony worked in the construction industry for over twenty years. He started as a journeyman electrician in the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers quickly ascending to Project Foreman and Superintendent. As an electrician, he was tasked with supervising complex building automation and control system installations, scheduling, coordination, procurement, and estimating for projects across many building sectors including industrial, commercial, K-12, and higher education. Then, he moved into Project Management working for a mid-size General Contractor/Construction Management Company based in Lansing, Michigan. In this capacity, he managed projects ranging in size from $4 million to over $115 million and was responsible for overall project execution including budget and cost controls, procurement, safety, scheduling, quality, and client satisfaction.
He is an effective communicator who possesses remarkable analytical problem-solving skills required for construction. His technical expertise has made him especially adept at interpreting contract documents, control drawings, and specifications enabling him to provide feedback and technical assistance during any phase of project delivery. Anthony's ability to manage tight schedules while maintaining great working relationships with owner representatives and construction professionals of all levels made him an invaluable project team member.
Anthony received both his Ph.D. in Planning, Design and Construction and master's degree (M.S.) in Construction Management from Michigan State University. He received his bachelor's degree (B.S.) from Eastern Michigan University and also holds a master electrical license in the State of Michigan. Anthony is a committee member for the Transportation Research Board - Standing Committee on Project Delivery Methods, an ELECTRI International Research Task Force Member, a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellow, and Ronald E. McNair Scholar.
His rich experience is now being disseminated among future leaders in the industry and scholars in architecture, engineering, and construction research.