Purdue University is known for its exceptional engineering programs and rigorous and rewarding coursework. However, being a successful engineering student is about more than just hitting the books. Getting involved with your peers outside the classroom can prove to be a significant benefit to your education.

Student organizations are a great way to get a leg up in the field and develop networks with fellow classmates, professionals, and alumni. Purdue’s school of Construction Engineering and Management offers a variety of student organizations that cater specifically to engineering studentsーeach providing unique opportunities to develop leadership skills, network with others in your chosen career path, and gain hands-on experience in your field of study.

Read on to learn about four engineering student organizations you can join to give yourself a well-rounded college experience.

Underground Construction Association (UCA)

No need to dig for a great student organization! Underground Construction Association (UCA) is a national organization that promotes continued professional growth in tunneling and underground construction and engineering. This organization encourages professional responsibility in all areasーethical, social, economic, and safety.

By becoming a member of Purdue’s chapter of UCA, you will have the opportunity to attend networking events with industry professionals, site visits, and national and international competitions and conventions. Members also have access to newsletters and magazines with articles on trade secrets and skills that could one day help them in the field. UCA’s online platform allows members to view countless articles, receive discounts on additional skills courses, and apply for potential jobs and internships.

As a national and professional organization, UCA allows students to change their membership from student to professional after graduation—allowing them to keep their benefits and connections when joining the workforce!

North American Society for Trenchless Technology

The North American Society for Trenchless Technology (NASTT) is another engineering student organization that focuses on promoting responsible ways to utilize our underground infrastructure and advancing trenchless technology.

Members of this organization are able to network with engineers, project managers, inspectors, and more. You can gain real-life experience by participating in the annual No-Dig conference, visiting sites, and conversing with guest lecturers. Plus, members have access to the world’s largest online library of trenchless technical papers—giving you a leg up on your studies.

Much like UCA, NASTT is a national organization that allows you to become a member after graduation. You will still have access to all of the organization’s resources and opportunities even after you land your first job!

Women in Construction (WinC)

If you’re ready to develop a community in the construction field, Women in Construction (WinC) is the organization for you! This is a Purdue-based organization that looks to give its members experience through hosting events and partnering with other organizations to work on projects. Despite the name, WinC is open to students of all genders. Their main goal is to create a community for women in constructionーand that includes everyone.

WinC hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including guest speakers, workshops, and networking opportunities. This engineering student organization also participates in outreach programs aiming to inspire the next generation of women in construction. Through its activities, WinC aims to break down gender barriers in the industry and create a more inclusive and diverse workforce.

Beta Tau

Purdue University's Beta Tau chapter is the honors fraternity for the school of Construction Engineering and Management. As it is invitation-only, this organization is strictly for students pursuing—or who have already graduated with—a degree in construction engineering while maintaining exceptional GPAs.

The chapter offers numerous benefits to its student members, including leadership opportunities, academic support, and a close-knit community of peers. Through their involvement in the chapter, members have the chance to develop skills in areas such as communication, organization, and event planning, which can be valuable in their future careers.

Additionally, the chapter provides academic resources such as study groups and tutoring to help members excel in their classes. Perhaps most importantly, the Beta Tau chapter fosters a strong sense of camaraderie among its members, offering a supportive social network and lifelong friendships that can endure beyond the college years.

Getting involved in rewarding student groups can play a key role in the success of your college experience. Purdue CEM is home to a variety of organizations that can provide you with unique opportunities to expand your knowledge and network with professionals in the field.

Ready to get involved? Learn more about our engineering student organizations and how you can join today!

The world is demanding innovative engineers who have the ability to design and manage projects as well as the skills to manage people.

The Purdue University Construction Engineering and Management program develops versatile engineers by merging high-value education with direct access to industry leaders and successful alumni. The curriculum is 80% construction engineering and 20% management courses, and classes are taught by industry experts who bring their own real-world experiences. Through small class sizes, innovative internships, 100% job placement, and the use of cutting-edge technology, we help turn a passion for engineering and architecture into a career where leadership, design, and oversight influence every aspect of a construction project.

For more information and to stay up-to-date on education opportunities, connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram, or visit our website here.