Kiewit Design-Build Scholars Program extends impact through 2032
The 2024-25 Kiewit Scholars cohort
A renewed commitment from Kiewit Corporation will empower engineering students at the University of Colorado Boulder to lead in the infrastructure and construction industries for years to come.
The Kiewit Design-Build Scholars Program at CU Boulder bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world engineering, offering students hands-on experiences to prepare them to thrive in a rapidly evolving workforce. Through mentorship, site tours, internships, professional development and a vibrant community network, the program combines academic excellence with industry engagement. Scholars gain the technical skills, confidence and professional connections they need to shape the future of infrastructure and construction.
CU Boulder recently received a generous $2.5 million pledge from Kiewit Corporation to continue the program through 2032, expanding opportunities for students and strengthening a partnership that has become a model for industry and academic collaboration.
"Kiewit Corporation's continuing investment will empower our students with unmatched opportunities to innovate, lead and shape the future of engineering and construction," said Keith Molenaar, dean of the College of Engineering and Applied Science. “The Kiewit Design‑Build Scholars Program is a model for how industry–university collaboration translates student potential into impact. This partnership doesn’t just benefit our students; it amplifies the collective economic impact that CU Boulder and Kiewit make across Colorado.”
Preparing students to lead from day one
The Kiewit Design-Build Scholars Program ensures CU Boulder engineering students graduate ready to make an immediate impact. Scholars benefit from professional development sessions, mentorship from experienced engineers and guaranteed summer internships—experiences that set them apart in the job market.
“At the Engineering Career Hub, our mission is to help students chart their career path, gain professional experience and build professional networks,” said Ben Weihrauch, EdD, senior director of student professional development at CU Engineering. “This is exactly what the Kiewit Design-Build Scholars program does. Kiewit Scholars graduate from CU Engineering ready to make an impact on society. The program is second-to-none.”
Students agree. One scholar shared that the most beneficial aspect of Kiewit’s program is the ability to prepare for careers after school through valuable experiential opportunities and inside looks at the design and construction industry.
Expanding access to engineering education
Along with the expanded commitment through 2032, Kiewit’s contribution will increase scholarship funding to $8,000 annually for each of the program’s 26 scholars, helping relieve financial stress and making an engineering education more accessible.
This gift reflects Kiewit’s dedication to supporting higher education through workforce development. As one of North America’s largest and most respected construction and engineering organizations, Kiewit designs and builds projects across power, transportation, water, oil, gas and chemical, marine, building, industrial and mining markets.
With Kiewit’s continued support, CU Boulder is setting the standard for industry and academic partnerships that prepare students to tackle the infrastructure challenges of tomorrow. Together, Kiewit and CU Boulder are shaping future leaders who transform the built environment and strengthen communities across the globe.