Constructing a Future: Meet Fall 2024 PNW graduate Mohammad Attallah
Mohammad Attallah ’24, is set to graduate with a bachelor of science degree in Construction Engineering and Management Technology (CEMT) from the College of Technology at Purdue University Northwest (PNW).
As a child, Attallah had a fascination with how quickly buildings and roads are built. Initially pursuing a civil engineering degree, he had a moment of self-reflection on what he wanted to do in life. A suggestion by a family friend and research into degrees in the construction engineering field led him to the CEMT program at PNW. “My first semester in the CEMT major, I knew this is what I want to do,” says Attallah.
After attending meetings of the Finance and Accounting Club and the Economics Club, the Frankfort, Ill., native found his place in the Construction Club where he served as president.
He also participated in a variety of intramural sports on campus, including volleyball, basketball and dodgeball.
Attallah’s goal throughout college was to gain as much knowledge and experience as possible in the CEMT field. He participated in several internships during his time at PNW – as a field engineer with an Indiana construction company, a materials tester for a laboratory facility and a concrete estimator with an Illinois construction company. This past summer he worked on the new Google headquarters building in Chicago as a field engineer intern for Clark Construction Group.
Attallah received a $1,000 Undergraduate Research Grant for his senior project titled, Advancing HVAC Quality and Performance through State-of-the-Art Sensing Technology, and is looking forward to having his paper published based on his findings. In addition, he was awarded the Outstanding Leadership Award from the College of Technology.
After graduation, Attallah will move to Indianapolis to work for BMWC Constructors as a project engineer. He plans on pursuing a master’s degree in the field at some point in the future. His ultimate goal is to become a project manager and lead projects to the finish line.
I always tell my friends and family that my greatest decision, right now in life, was transferring to PNW.
Why did you choose to attend PNW?
“In 2021, I transferred from another university in Indiana to PNW. I was unhappy where I was at and my mother suggested I look into PNW. It had a good engineering program and reputation and it was also closer to home. So, I enrolled. I always tell my friends and family that my greatest decision, right now in life, was transferring to PNW. It rejuvenated me and gave me purpose.”
What did you like most about PNW?
“I like PNW because I feel at home here. I like the campus vibe – I feel like people know me and I know them. It’s possible to speak to your professors and get to know them and have them get to know you. It feels like a community.”
What did you like most about the CEMT program at PNW?
“The program was super hands on. I felt like I was using my mind instead of just sitting in a class.”
Did you have a pivotal experience while attending PNW?
“It happened this semester during my senior project when Professor Afshin Zahraee called me to his office. He told me he believed my senior project paper had the potential to be published as a journal article. I’ve never had a professor instill that kind of motivation or inspiration in me. After that, I worked hard so I didn’t let him down – because he believes in me and I believe in myself.”
What words of advice would you share with prospective students looking to attend PNW?
“First, no matter the circumstance or how much pressure there is, never quit. Always rise to the occasion…you’ll be glad you did. Second, never let anyone tell you what you can or can’t do – don’t let anyone dictate your future.”
Was there anyone at PNW who inspired or encouraged you along the way?
Assistant Professor, Construction Engineering & Management Technology
“I’ve always been a motivated and inspired person, but Dr. Zahraee helped raise that to a new level. I will forever be grateful for the advice and opportunities he gave me. I even wrote him into the dedication on my senior project.”