Construction engineering student finds success through building relationships
KALAMAZOO, Mich.--Students say that Western Michigan University’s experience-driven learning, internships, faculty mentors and registered student organizations are valuable additions to their coursework and future careers. While these opportunities abound in the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, senior Drew Bielawski adds to that list, saying fellow students have been essential to his education.
“It’s been a heck of an experience going through an engineering program,” says Bielawski. “Working through it with my peers has been the best experience. We all help each other move towards graduation.”
A construction engineering student from Downers Grove, Illinois, Bielawski initially thought he would pursue a career in architecture but found construction engineering and Western the ideal fit.
“My skills and personality are better suited to construction,” says Bielawski, who chose Western for its engineering program and its affordable out-of-state tuition. “What excites me about construction is all the coordination, problem solving and forward thinking that happens by everyone to accomplish a common goal.”
Bielawski gravitates to environments that require this team effort in his professional pursuits. He has completed three internships in the construction industry and a stint working part-time as a tutor at WMU’s Haworth College of Business during his sophomore, junior and senior years.
“My summer internship before my senior year at Executive Construction in Chicago was unbelievable. I had a phenomenal project team and superintendent that I must thank for learning so much within a short summer,” says Bielawski who has accepted a full-time position as a project engineer with the company following his 2025 graduation. “There are many experiences I shared with my fellow interns and co-workers from which I learned the value of working relationships and the impact it can have on an individual or team.”
Through his earlier internships, Bielawski learned how to collaborate with owners, architects, general contractors and subcontractors while developing skills in estimating, analyzing drawings, project management and supervision.
During his first year at WMU, Bielawski wanted to take a business class “since most decisions, whether they be in design, construction or engineering, ultimately revolve around financing,” says Bielawski, who chose a first-year Business Enterprise course. “I developed a relationship with my professor, and he offered me a job as a tutor for the course. I’m still happy to have accepted it as I’ve bettered my communication and collaboration skills while helping others.”
He is committed to his position at Executive Construction and is still exploring his long-term professional route. “Construction materials, timelines, and building techniques continue to change and adapt with the demands of the economy. The support of those close to me and my ability to work hard, adapt and learn will continue to keep doors open and push my career forward.”
While pursuing career experiences, working and studying, Bielawski makes sure to develop relationships with those around him and says Dr. Decker Hains, instructor of civil and construction engineering and chair of the Department of Management, has been the most influential instructor in his coursework.
“The energy and enthusiasm that he brings to the classroom is contagious and inspires students to learn and put forth the work.”
You can follow Bielawski’s career on LinkedIn.
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