Written by Jenny Moore, Director of Professional Development Outreach, AGC of MN
Associated General Contractors of Minnesota (AGC of MN) is proud to welcome the St. Cloud State University (SCSU) AGC Student Chapter as its newest student chapter—marking an important step in strengthening the future construction workforce in Minnesota.
To kick off this new partnership, AGC of MN hosted a Mentoring Lunch & Learn connecting students from SCSU with members of the Building Leaders cohort. The event brought together more than 271 years of combined industry experience, creating a dynamic environment for students to engage directly with construction professionals.
“It was a great opportunity to connect with industry professionals and helped support students who are exploring careers in construction,” said SCSU’s AGC Student Chapter President, Natalie Gneiser. “Events like this help bridge the gap between what we learn in the classroom and how it applies in the real world. It also gave students the chance to ask questions, build connections, and feel more confident as they start thinking about their future in the industry.”
The event underscored the value of establishing an AGC student chapter early—giving students access to mentorship, networking, and real-world insight as they prepare to enter the workforce. Conversations focused on career pathways, industry expectations, and the importance of communication and relationships in building successful projects.
“It was great to connect with the future of our industry and share real-world insights you can’t learn in a classroom,” said Nate Fischbach, Project Manager with Rachel Contracting. “Students came prepared with thoughtful questions, and one message stood out—strong communication and relationships are the foundation of every successful project.”
The St. Cloud State University Construction Management Program continues to prepare students for leadership roles in residential and commercial construction through hands-on learning, industry partnerships, and real-world application. The addition of an AGC Student Chapter further strengthens that experience by connecting students to the broader construction community. “When students engage directly with industry professionals, it helps them better understand career paths and what will be expected of them after graduation,” said SCSU CM Faculty Member, Chuck Hentges.
AGC of MN is excited to support the continued growth of the SCSU AGC Student Chapter and looks forward to expanding opportunities for students to engage, learn, and lead.
To learn more about supporting AGC of Minnesota student chapters or connecting with St. Cloud State University, please contact Jenny Moore at jmoore@agcmn.org.