Construction Management students from the Estopinal College of Architecture and Planning earned top honors at the annual New Builders Competition, held each February at the University of Cincinnati Construction Student Association. The competition challenges first- and second-year students to develop and present comprehensive construction proposals in both residential and commercial categories. More information about the event can be found on the UC Construction Student Association Alliance website.

In the Residential category, Ball State students earned third place for their proposal centered on a neighborhood development project. Teams were tasked with creating a full development plan, including company background, site layout and zoning, construction schedule and cost estimate, and a market analysis. Students also designed community amenities and presented their work to a panel of potential investors. The team was coached by faculty member Courtney Bell and student coach Maya Breakah, with team members Claire Gray, Caden Hodge, Natalie Mann, Cassie McKay and Jordi Martinez-Morales.

Ball State also earned third place in the Commercial category. Competing in a track sponsored by Danis Construction, students developed a proposal for a health innovation center that required coordination across multiple trades and complex project challenges. The team demonstrated strong collaboration, technical preparation and professionalism while presenting to industry judges. The team was coached by faculty member Sherif Attalah and student coach Jenna Kast, with team members Travis Henke, Catherine Hill, Joshua De Jesus, Sarah Kress and JaMaelyn Sanders.

Upperclassmen coaches helped the teams to assign and delegate project tasks as well as review their work and provide feedback. The experience mirrors real-world construction processes, giving students valuable exposure to industry expectations, teamwork and client-focused presentation skills.

Both teams’ third-place finishes reflect the strength of Ball State’s Construction Management program and its commitment to preparing students for professional success.