Pasquale “PJ” DeSimone '26, a senior in the University of Hartford’s Construction Management and Technology (CMT) program, is laying a strong foundation for his future, both literally and figuratively. PJ has embraced every opportunity UHart and the College of Engineering, Technology, and Architecture (CETA) have offered him to prepare for a successful career in the construction industry.
His passion for construction began in high school, where he took part in a technical program that introduced him to drafting. “That experience sparked my interest in the construction industry and UHart’s CMT program felt like the perfect fit to help me achieve my goals,” PJ explains. The CMT program combines hands-on learning with technical and management skills, preparing students to become leaders in a wide range of construction and infrastructure careers.
Something PJ values most about his UHart experience is the small, personable class sizes. “It’s so much easier to learn and ask questions when you can really get to know your professors and classmates,” he says. “I’ve had a lot of support from faculty, especially Professor Sussmann, who has been instrumental in helping me plan my curriculum.”
PJ has also gained hands-on experience through an internship with Maine Drilling and Blasting, where he worked as an advanced summer help intern. “The company treated me very well and gave me opportunities to work in environments and around equipment I never would have seen otherwise,” PJ shares. “My favorite part was being outside every day, working in a different quarry each day instead of reporting to the same office. It gave me great insight into the industry and helped me understand how to work with a diverse group of people, something that will be very valuable when I manage teams in the future.”
PJ is an active member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, where he enjoys taking part in philanthropic events on campus. “Being involved in SAE has been a great experience,” he says. “I especially enjoy participating in events that give back to the community, both those hosted by us and other chapters.”
Outside of the classroom, PJ enjoys spending time outdoors, golfing, fishing, and being with his family. After graduation, he plans to enter the job market and put the skills and knowledge he’s gained at UHart to work.
Pasquale “PJ” DeSimone, College of Architecture, Technology, and EngineeringUHart has given me exposure to equipment and software that a lot of students don’t get to see until they’re already working in the field. That kind of preparation makes me feel confident and ready to step into the industry after graduation.