Construction management degree provides new discoveries for RTC student

Santiago Regalado believes that good construction management is not just about great buildings, but about creating lasting value for communities. Since coming to RTC to earn his associate’s degree in construction management, he’s felt a renewed enthusiasm for the construction processes, teamwork, and safety practices.

“One of the most exciting discoveries for me at RTC has been learning about the role of innovation and emerging technologies in construction,” Santiago shared, “I have been particularly interested in how artificial intelligence and data-driven tools can be used to optimize resources, improve planning, and reduce waste.”

Santiago first came to RTC to improve his English skills as a new immigrant from Ecuador. Having earned a university degree in architecture in his home country, he had to start over with his education and credentials and saw an opportunity to use his building skills and work toward a new construction career in the United States.

That is where the McCarthy Bridge Grant through the generosity of donors provided the resources for Santiago to take the next steps in his education journey.

Even with scholarships and grants, Santiago continues to carry a big load to make his career dreams a reality.

“As a full-time Construction Management student, I only work part-time, and although I am committed to supporting myself, having limited work hours makes it difficult to cover tuition, books, transportation, and other essential expenses. I volunteer at my church and provide added support to my parents in my home country,” shared Santiago.

“Education is very important to me,” he added, “To donors I want to share that your generosity is not simply financial aid, it is an investment in resilience. Thanks to your support, students like me can transform opportunities into professional growth and future leadership in the construction industry. You're directly helping to build not just structures, but lives and communities.”

For Santiago, RTC is just the beginning, and you are a part of that ongoing success.