Mary Kate Rowe and Suzie Gill, both students in OSU Institute of Technology’s Civil Engineering Technology program, recently received scholarships from the Association of General Contractors of Oklahoma.

Each received a $1,000 from AGC of Oklahoma, a statewide nonprofit organization for construction professionals that was established in 1939. The organization represents all types and disciplines of contractors and related affiliates including general contractors, subcontractors, specialty contractors, suppliers, service providers, education affiliates, and other industry related professional organizations.

Before they were awarded the scholarships, Rowe and Gill sent in their resumes, and then in-person interviews were conducted before the recipients were announced in June.

“I was really excited. We’re really happy for each other,” Rowe said.

Jennifer Butler, Civil Engineering Technology instructor, said this was the first year AGC of Oklahoma awarded scholarships to civil engineering students.

“I was happy for them because I felt they were deserving. They both work really hard,” Butler said.

Gill attended OSU in Stillwater before she started a career in drafting. She learned of OSUIT’s Bachelor of Technology in Civil Engineering Technology from alumni of the program.

“Since I double majored the first time I attended OSU, I have run out of any grant funds available,” Rowe said, so the scholarship will help her with books and commuting costs next semester. “I thoroughly enjoy the challenges and look forward to a career in engineering.”

Rowe said she learned of OSUIT’s program while she was looking for engineering schools because the field combines two of her interests.

“Math is my favorite subject, and with engineering, you also get to express your creativity. I love it,” she said.

For Rowe, OSUIT’s program has been a great fit.

“I like the hands-on aspect a lot. It really prepares you for work. The smaller program means you get to spend more time with teachers. They go out of their way to prepare you for your future.”

Rowe said she is putting her scholarship funds into savings for when she pursues a master’s degree after she graduates from OSUIT.

Gill is already looking forward to continuing her career in the engineering field.

“I hope to work at an engineering firm where I can use my 15 years of drafting experience and my Bachelor of Technology degree to benefit myself and the company I work for,” she said.