The University of Houston College of Technology has received a $50,000 donation from UH alumnus Michael Piwetz. The donation will be used to provide scholarships to deserving students in the UH construction management program.
A 1973 chemical engineering graduate, Piwetz began his career at Fluor Corporation and eventually became the Fluor Foundation's executive sponsor to the University of Houston. He served on the advisory boards for chemical engineering department, the College of Engineering and the College of Technology board. Piwetz also shared his industry experience by serving as a guest lecturer for construction management classes for several years after he retired in 2009.
While an active participant on the College of Technology advisory board, he encouraged support for an industrial emphasis, which would make graduates more attractive to industry. "The knowledge gained in the industrial track is going to allow them to speak the same language as hiring manager," said Piwetz. Those students will be among the best prepared to start a dialogue that will better resonate with the companies.
"Many of the UH construction management students tend to be experienced and older than the traditional undergraduate college student; and, some of them are supporting families already," Piwetz said. "My hope is that our gift will help relieve some of the financial burden for deserving students and help ensure the continued success of that unique program."