Macomb student transitions from carpenter to construction manager
Monday, December 16, 2024 12:00 AM
Through Macomb’s Construction Management program, Nicholas (Nick) Mattei discovered the confidence to pursue a career path he once thought was out of reach.
“I no longer have to carry heavy beams across a construction site and now I’m helping with the logistics of carrying that heavy item.” Nick shared with a smile, as he talked about his journey from field carpenter to construction manager.
While carpentry can be a rewarding career, its physical demands often take a toll over time. “I’ve never met a carpenter over 50 still in the field and being in my mid-30s, I was getting kind of concerned about what I was going to do,” Nick said. That’s when he decided to explore new opportunities at Macomb.
Macomb instructors go above and beyond for students
Nick attributes much of his success to the unwavering support of his construction instructors. One instructor, with a “very warm personality” helped Nick ease back into the college environment, alleviating his anxieties after being away from school for so long.
MI Reconnect eases the stress of paying for college
Balancing work, home, and school life was challenging enough for Nick, but the cost of college added another layer of stress. Initially, Nick paid for his education out of pocket until Macomb’s financial aid department reached out to inform him that he qualified for the MI Reconnect scholarship. The program covers tuition for full-time students over the age of 21 pursuing an associate degree. Thanks to MI Reconnect, Nick reflected, “It would have probably taken me four or five years but with the help of Reconnect, I was able to complete my associate (degree) in two.”
Reaping the rewards of a Macomb degree
After completing the Construction Management program at Macomb, Nick quickly experienced the benefits of his degree. Leaving behind his job as a carpenter, he stepped into a new role as a construction manager. “The progression I’ve gotten through this program and in my career was walking into a construction meeting with my old bosses, sitting at the table and knowing they’re not my bosses anymore, they’re just colleagues now,” he said.
This career advancement has not only relieved the physical demands of his previous job but also provided a stable career path he can enjoy until retirement.
Along with job satisfaction, Nick has seen a significant increase in his income. “Income-wise, it’s night and day,” he said. “I used to struggle to pay my credit cards on time and now I have money to take my family on vacations and provide them with a life that I didn’t have as a child.”
Looking back on his journey, Nick feels optimistic about the future and encourages others in similar situations to consider a change. “It’s never too late to discover a different career path,” he said.
One of the biggest barriers preventing people from attending college is the cost. Fortunately, the MI Reconnect scholarship helps cover tuition expenses. With a deadline of December 31, 2024, there’s still time to apply. Visit our website to learn more about this opportunity.
If you’re like Nick and are interested in a career in construction or want to explore the logistics of the construction process be sure to check out our Construction Management program
“I no longer have to carry heavy beams across a construction site and now I’m helping with the logistics of carrying that heavy item.” Nick shared with a smile, as he talked about his journey from field carpenter to construction manager.
While carpentry can be a rewarding career, its physical demands often take a toll over time. “I’ve never met a carpenter over 50 still in the field and being in my mid-30s, I was getting kind of concerned about what I was going to do,” Nick said. That’s when he decided to explore new opportunities at Macomb.
Macomb instructors go above and beyond for students
Nick attributes much of his success to the unwavering support of his construction instructors. One instructor, with a “very warm personality” helped Nick ease back into the college environment, alleviating his anxieties after being away from school for so long.
MI Reconnect eases the stress of paying for college
Balancing work, home, and school life was challenging enough for Nick, but the cost of college added another layer of stress. Initially, Nick paid for his education out of pocket until Macomb’s financial aid department reached out to inform him that he qualified for the MI Reconnect scholarship. The program covers tuition for full-time students over the age of 21 pursuing an associate degree. Thanks to MI Reconnect, Nick reflected, “It would have probably taken me four or five years but with the help of Reconnect, I was able to complete my associate (degree) in two.”
Reaping the rewards of a Macomb degree
After completing the Construction Management program at Macomb, Nick quickly experienced the benefits of his degree. Leaving behind his job as a carpenter, he stepped into a new role as a construction manager. “The progression I’ve gotten through this program and in my career was walking into a construction meeting with my old bosses, sitting at the table and knowing they’re not my bosses anymore, they’re just colleagues now,” he said.
This career advancement has not only relieved the physical demands of his previous job but also provided a stable career path he can enjoy until retirement.
Along with job satisfaction, Nick has seen a significant increase in his income. “Income-wise, it’s night and day,” he said. “I used to struggle to pay my credit cards on time and now I have money to take my family on vacations and provide them with a life that I didn’t have as a child.”
Looking back on his journey, Nick feels optimistic about the future and encourages others in similar situations to consider a change. “It’s never too late to discover a different career path,” he said.
One of the biggest barriers preventing people from attending college is the cost. Fortunately, the MI Reconnect scholarship helps cover tuition expenses. With a deadline of December 31, 2024, there’s still time to apply. Visit our website to learn more about this opportunity.
If you’re like Nick and are interested in a career in construction or want to explore the logistics of the construction process be sure to check out our Construction Management program