During the 2022-23 academic year, we are highlighting one Colorado State University student or alum from each of Colorado’s 64 counties. The Centennial State’s land grant university has a connection to the diverse lands and people from the counties of Moffat to Baca, Montezuma to Sedgwick and everywhere in between.

Colton Whitman

Major: Construction Management (2019 graduate)

Why I chose CSU: I wanted to stay somewhat local because I grew up in Colorado. Editor’s note: Whitman grew up in Littleton but now works in Lake County.

My favorite thing about CSU: The construction program is amazing. I think it sets up students the most for success. It was pretty easy to find work after college.

Clubs/organizations in college: Chi Alpha Oupost; Association of General Contractors, CSU chapter

Favorite achievement in high school or college: I think I learned what my work ethic can be in college. I had pretty much a full-time job and was a small group leader (Chi Alpha) and the president of a club all at the same time.

Career goals: In the long run, to be my own general contractor and building custom homes.

Favorite instructor(s): John Killingsworth. He was a great teacher. He was very personable. He wanted to make it so we were professionals and not just students. 

I’d like to thank: My parents. They not only helped me financially get through college but also they knew when to push me and when to let me sink or swim a little bit to allow me to find my own way through college.

Favorite NOCO food and hangouts: Krazy Karl’s. I think it was my third year in college and we were there every single Wednesday.

What’s your favorite CSU tradition: I love the CU rivalry.

What do you tell people from Lake County about CSU: It’s a perfect blend of Wyoming country and CU hippie.

Something people should know about Lake County: It’s getting bigger. People are starting to move up there. People come to Lake County, come to Leadville and the surrounding forestland and really get to enjoy some weekends. I think it’s one of many beautiful places in Colorado.

Biggest adversity you’ve overcome at CSU: I got into the party lifestyle a lot my first two years, that’s why I was there for six years.