Construction Industry Empowerment Scholarship Program
Building a Brighter Future for First-Generation Students in Construction
Join us in transforming lives.
The Construction Industry Empowerment (CIE) Scholarship Program is a bold initiative by Oregon State University’s College of Engineering to support first-generation, high financial need students who are committed to careers in construction.
These students often encounter substantial barriers to higher education and pursue nontraditional paths to graduation, such as deferring enrollment, attending part-time, or working to support themselves. They make up about 30% of our construction-focused student body, with 80% identifying as underrepresented in higher education. This offers a strong opportunity to create a meaningful impact on equity and workforce development.
Your Partnership Matters
We are proud to have launched three cohorts totaling 22 students, and we’re preparing to welcome our fourth cohort in Fall 2025. With your support, we can expand this program and deepen its impact.
We invite you to become a CIE Sponsor with a $30,000 gift, joining a growing network of industry leaders committed to empowering the next generation of construction professionals.
$8,000
Of the $10,000 scholars receive each academic year, $8,000 helps fund tuition and fees.
$2,000
The remaining $2,000 supports experiential opportunities, including internships and conferences.
Why Sponsor?
- Invest in equity and access for students who reflect the future of our industry.
- Build your brand among top engineering talent.
- Strengthen your workforce pipeline with students who are academically strong and career-ready.
Join us in creating opportunities that change lives
Britten Johnson, a civil engineering student, is pursuing her dream to design structures that withstand natural disasters, thanks to the support of the CIE Scholarship. Financially independent, Britten’s dedication and hard work helped her secure crucial funding for her education and hands-on experiences, including an internship as a project engineer in Portland.
Your gift can empower more students like Britten to shape a safer, innovative future in engineering.
Get in touch
To learn more about the CIE Scholarship Program and how your company can get involved, please contact:
Jack Istok
Professor and Head, School of Civil and Construction Engineering
541-737-8547