09/01/2026
Yesterday, MVCC Carpentry and Masonry students got a behind-the-scenes look at the Applied Technology Center construction site at our Utica Campus. They got to see how the new building is coming together — from ground improvements and foundations to structural steel — and even observed a live slab-on-grade concrete pour as a team of masons worked it into place and began finishing methods such as floating and troweling.
For students learning these techniques in the classroom, seeing the pros in action makes all the difference, said MVCC Assistant Professor Scott Jackson. “They were able to see the methods and sequence of concrete placement and finishing processes. It was a great experience for them.”
The tour was led by Beebe Construction Services Project Manager Ryan Reed and Director of Construction Management Mark Lawlor, who discussed progress on the building’s structural system and what comes next.
“We believe it’s important for students to see real-life examples of what they’re learning in the classroom,” said Ryan Reed. “Our industry needs to invest in the next generation, and experiences like this can inspire future careers.”
Big thanks to Ryan Reed and Mark Lawlor of Beebe for sharing their expertise and giving our students a firsthand look at the work happening on campus. 💚
