At age 47, I went back to finish something I walked away from years ago. Earn my college degree.
When I nervously walked into that first Del E. Webb School of Construction class, it felt strange, like stepping back into a life I’d paused decades earlier. I wasn’t the same person who left over 20 years ago. Now I was a husband, a father to twin boys, and an executive leader at Willmeng Construction, Inc. My days were full, and the nights were arguably fuller. I’ve been sober for many, many years, more patient and more intentional about what life has to offer…but was still nervous about this opportunity. Which was weird for me, because not much in life makes me feel nervous.
Then the first student I interacted with looked at me and said, “Hey man, are you the teacher?” I laughed out loud and replied, “No dude, just here to learn like you.” Shocked he said, “Whoa, that’s cool!” That moment broke the tension and reminded me I belonged there.
Returning to Arizona State University to complete my degree in Construction Management wasn’t just an academic decision. It was a commitment to my family, my team, and the standard I expect of myself.
Balancing school with being a husband, a father, and an executive leader at Willmeng stretched me in ways I didn’t expect. Late nights. Early mornings. Hard homework. Test prep. And the freakin’ math. But never was the burden carried alone.
KK shouldered more than her share of family coverage so I could chase this goal. Luke & Charlie cheered me on in thoughtful ways and constantly reminded me they were watching. “Get an A+ today, Dad” was their favorite rally cry. And my Willmeng and industry teammates, from mentors to peers to the people I’m fortunate to lead and work with every day, they supported me with patience, encouragement, and genuine belief. Support from my village wasn’t just helpful…it was the difference!
Somewhere in the middle of the past 2 years of chaos, something became clear: growth doesn’t stop with age, success, or comfort. It continues when the people around you lift you up and push you forward.
Sure, I’m proud of the degree. But I’m even more grateful for the unconditional love from family, friends, and teammates who made it possible.
My college story is finally written. The book is closed.
On to the next chapter…
Special Thank you’s🫶: Karen Jarvis Stephen Jarvis James Murphy Jim Ernzen Kristen Parrish Arunabho Ghosh Isam Ghandour, CPE Tim Becker Blake Riley Sydney Edwards Kristen Hurtado Maitreyee Kulkarni Daniel Rosenbalm, PhD, PE Barry Kutz Cody Phelan Aaron Cohen Derek Boland, P.E., PMP, M. ASCE Sigma Lambda Chi International (SLC)