XAVIER DUKES

PROJECT ENGINEER

FROM: Tampa, Florida

THEN: Bachelor of Science in Construction Management – August 2018

NOW: Nabholz Construction in Rogers, Arkansas

GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT & CAREER PATH:

Shortly after graduation Xavier began his career path with Nabholz Construction. His greatest accomplishment so far is being placed on Nabholz Superintendent Development Program. Xavier’s career path for the next 2 – 4 years is working towards becoming a superintendent and later a project manager.

HOW MSU EQUIPPED XAVIER FOR HIS CAREER:

Xavier didn’t realize how beneficial classes such as surveying, project administration, and senior project, till after graduation and beginning his career. Taking these classes has prepared Xavier for his career path. Missouri State University gave Xavier a sold and well-rounded foundation.

ADVICE FOR CURRENT STUDENTS AND RECENT GRADUATES:

“Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. In our industry even, people who have been doing this work for 20 plus years still mess up, so don’t be afraid to go for it. If you don’t take good notes now, learn how to. Too many things go on during any given day. So good notes will take you a long way, even if you feel like you can remember everything. Also, communication skills matter. All we do is talk to work through issues or concerns. If you’re not a strong communicator, get to working on them soft skills.”