UCA Announces Website Resources for Underground Construction & Tunneling Workforce

Jul 16, 2020 - 5 years ago

The next generation of underground engineers have a new educational resource in Down For That a website from the Underground Construction Association, a division of SME (UCA).

UCA Announces Website Resources for Underground Construction & Tunneling Workforce
Down For That is an initiative that informs students about the underground industry through numerous resources and provides opportunities for them to get involved. The website is designed to be a one-stop resource for students, professors and industry professionals to gain knowledge and share information on the underground construction and tunneling industry.
“The vast majority of Civil Engineering students have no exposure to any underground engineering or construction. If they ever get a glimpse, it comes from us, the UCA members. Exposing them to the exciting and long-term underground career opportunities early in their academic careers is imperative,” said Paul Schmall, PhD, PE, Vice President, Keller North America, and UCA board member. “This website provides students and educators with access to the tunneling industry that has been lacking until now. There are viable and vibrant career paths in underground engineering and construction, and we’re excited to pass it on to tomorrow’s professionals.”
Students will gain knowledge and university professors can support their classroom through the library of resources, videos, papers, and presentations on underground construction topics, as well as scholarship opportunities. Industry professionals contribute to the resources through video presentations, as guest speakers, and by conducting on-site tours of tunneling projects.
“UCA is committed to providing educational and professional development programs to our future leaders,” said SME Executive Director David L. Kanagy. “UCA’s new Down For That website offers opportunities for students to engage in the world of underground construction and tunneling both inside and outside of the classroom.”
Visit this new website at undergroundcareers.org to see how UCA is raising awareness about the exciting careers available in the tunneling and underground construction industry.

About the UCA
The Underground Construction Association (UCA) brings together tunneling’s brightest and most dedicated professionals. Over 13,000 global members advance their careers with the world-class technical resources, educational programs, networking opportunities and professional development tools from UCA. Our members are focused on sharing best practices in safety, environmental stewardship and technological advancements.