USM Construction and Design Receives $335K Grant from Mississippi Board of Contractors

Wed, 05/24/2023 - 01:20pm | By: Ivonne Kawas Prado

The University of Southern Mississippi's (USM) School of Construction and Design is the recipient of a $335,000 grant from the Mississippi Board of Contractors. This grant will provide the necessary resources and funding to enhance USM’s Construction Management program and make a lasting impact on the construction industry in Mississippi.

Expressing his enthusiasm, the School Director Dr. Emre Bayraktar stated, “I am thrilled about securing a significant grant from the Mississippi Board of Contractors. This grant will provide the necessary resources and funding to elevate our Construction Management program and bring about substantial curriculum enhancements.”

The grant will play a pivotal role in expanding course offerings and curriculum, enabling USM to develop a master's program in Construction Management. Additionally, the grant will support the establishment of the Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Construction. This center will serve as a hub for fostering innovation, collaboration, and entrepreneurial thinking among our students, faculty, and industry professionals.

“This marks a significant milestone, as the funds will facilitate the establishment of the Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Construction,” said Dr. Bayraktar. “As a hub for fostering innovation and forging connections, this center will be instrumental in supporting student startups and aspiring entrepreneurs in the construction field by offering mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities.”

Dr. Bayraktar also aims to strengthen the school's partnerships with the construction industry, which will help create even more valuable connections for students.

“Through collaborations with contractors, developers, and industry organizations, the school plans to provide networking and experiential learning opportunities, including job fairs, industry-led projects, and the participation of students in various professional competitions and events,” said Dr. Bayraktar. “By actively engaging with the industry, the school aims to align its program with current industry needs and ensure that our graduates are in high demand.”

Another exciting aspect of this grant is the establishment of a scholarship fund that will be dedicated to supporting deserving students who demonstrate a passion for the construction field. Additionally, it will help enhance USM’s endowment fund for the Professor of Practice.

"The establishment of a scholarship fund will ensure that financial limitations do not hinder a student’s pursuit of a quality education,” said Dr. Bayraktar. “It will provide opportunities to talented individuals who might otherwise be unable to pursue their educational goals.”

USM's School of Construction and Design is dedicated to providing a top-notch education in Construction Management and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the construction field. This generous grant from the Mississippi Board of Contractors will empower the school to continue to achieve these goals and contribute to the growth and development of the construction industry in Mississippi.

"The positive impact this grant will have on the institution, its students, and Mississippi’s construction industry is immeasurable,” said Dr. Bayraktar. “We are very grateful for this grant, and we are excited for what’s to come.”

Visit the website of the School of Construction and Design to learn more or call 601.266.4895.