Inspiring Graduate: Ellie Becker, B.S. Construction Management

Inspiring Graduate: Ellie Becker (’25)

• Hometown: St. James, Minnesota
• Degree: B.S. Construction Management

Ellie Becker was hired before graduation to work on semiconductor facilities with Sundt Construction, in Phoenix, Arizona.

“I hope to make a meaningful impact by promoting equality and expanding opportunities within the construction industry,” Becker said. “I want to be a public figure that others in the construction industry can look up to – someone who shows that success is possible for anyone, no matter their background.”

Becker, of St. James, Minnesota, chose UW-Stout for its polytechnic advantage, something she didn’t find among other universities in the Midwest. She earned her bachelor’s in construction management on May 10, along with 1,174 UW-Stout graduates. 

“I want to remind people that there are endless opportunities out there, as long as you’re willing to take that chance. One day, I hope to share my experiences to inspire others to do the same and help build a more inclusive, supportive environment for everyone in the construction field,” she said.

How has UW-Stout prepared you to work in your field? 

The best feature Stout offers is requiring students to have an internship or co-op before graduation. That allowed me and others to travel and make new connections all across the country. 

I’ve been a field engineer intern with Ames Construction, in Elk River, Minnesota, working on transportation and heavy civil road construction. I’ve been a project engineer intern with Hensel Phelps, in Seattle, Washington, working on commercial construction at SEATAC Airport.

During my co-op with Sundt Construction in fall 2024, I was a field engineer intern, working in the advanced technology and industrial sector.

How did your involvement on campus impact your experience? 

My involvement in different communities and at UW-Stout has connected me with more people than I could have imagined. It’s been incredibly fun and rewarding to meet individuals from all over the country, each bringing their own unique backgrounds, talents and perspectives. 

I loved getting to share experiences and build relationships with such a diverse group – everyone has something cool to offer, and those connections are ones I truly hope will last a lifetime.

I served on the boards of several student organizations, including the Student Construction Association, Sigma Lambda Chi Construction Honor Society and UW-Stout Women in Construction.

I was a member of UW-Stout’s women’s tennis team for four years, and I volunteered for Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Seattle Pride, Northwest Pride and Minneapolis Pride.

I was also a student member of the National Association of Women in Construction and was on the Association of Building Contractors Construction Management Competition Team.

What stands out about your UW-Stout experience?

My absolute best experience at UW-Stout was studying abroad in northern Thailand to learn more about their culture and their minority groups. Spending roughly three weeks in Thailand gave me such an eye-opening experience, learning more about their history, culture and people. 

The highlights of the trip for me were spending time at a protected refugee camp playing soccer and basketball and learning new games; exploring the city of Chang Mai on a moped; and celebrating the Hmong New Year in the mountains at their festival. 

What challenges did you face in earning your degree and how did you overcome them? 

I’ve faced challenges in areas like reading, writing and math, which made certain classes especially tough. On top of that, it was difficult for me to reach out to professors for help. Over time, I realized how important it is to build genuine relationships with my instructors. When professors get to know you personally, they start to understand where you’re struggling, and that connection can make a big difference. It helped me feel more supported and more confident in asking for the help I needed.

What are you most proud of as you finish your degree?

I am most proud of who Stout has made me as a person. Without my experience at Stout, I cannot imagine where I would be today.

A big part of my success isn’t just because of me. It's thanks to the incredible people I've surrounded myself with. Their support, encouragement, and belief in me have shaped not only where I am today but also how I’m perceived as an individual. Of course, it hasn’t all been sunshine and rainbows. I’ve faced plenty of challenges and obstacles along the way. 

But I truly believe those tough moments helped shape me into the person I am today – and for that, I’m grateful.