Even in brand new competition arenas, CSU students prove to be the best of the best.

A team of students from the Department of Construction Management travelled to New Orleans, La., for the first competition held as part of the Roofing Industry Alliance for Progress’ recent partnership with three universities. The students pitted their skills against those of students from Auburn University and the University of Florida, and returned home with the top prize.

The competition challenged students’ roofing knowledge, construction management skills, time management, and organizational and presentation skills. Teams were presented with a problem statement and required to research the project, review the plans, and assemble a full estimate and proposal to submit a qualified bid package. They made oral presentations at the 2015 National Roofing Contractors Association annual conference Feb. 24 to a panel of industry judges.

CSU’s team brought home a trophy, a $1,000 award, and will be recognized in various media produced for the roofing industry.