“The information I learned in University of Colorado Denver classes applies to not only industry standards in the United States, but also to the international job market,” said international alum, Yang (Brandon) Zhou.  “An example is knowledge about international building codes. In the U.S., in-depth research leads to the development of cutting-edge techniques that are used internationally. In bridge engineering, this includes high-level safety guides and efficient structural planning.”

Zhou originally came to CU Denver through the university’s 3 + 1 +1 partnership with Northeast Forestry University (NEFU). Students study for the first three years in Harbin, China; in the fourth year, they can attend CU Denver to complete their bachelor’s degree and then earn a master’s degree. Zhou continued his studies,  graduating with a PhD in civil engineering from CU Denver.

“The pace accelerates rapidly for post-graduation jobs,” he said. “While you’re in school, good classes give you knowledge and preparation. When you step into the real world, processes happen quickly and all at once.”

Zhou works for Egis, a company based in France with offices worldwide. When he discovered that Egis was expanding its branch office in Colorado, he was intrigued and decided to apply. His  job position demands an entrepreneurial mindset, combining skills in design, communications, budgeting, and management.

Throughout his school years and career path, Zhou has experienced the importance of maintaining good communications. “In the engineering field, a feasibility study leads to a preliminary design, which in turn must be effectively communicated to the client. Listening to your client and addressing their concerns, suggestions, and ideas is key.”

He further explained that the final design culminates in the issuance of construction documents. During the construction phase, a construction team is formed, necessitating effective two-way communication with contractors and suppliers.

“Different engineers and different contractors have their own ways of doing things. There may be new refinements that could save time, money, and be more efficient – it’s critical to listen, provide guidance, and build productive working relationships.”

Zhou thinks this is an opportune time to be working in the engineering field in Colorado, either as a recent international alum on the Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, or as a more seasoned professional who is gaining additional industry experience.

More funding has become available for Colorado and Denver agencies, allowing opportunities to “take project plans off the shelf” and make them a priority. In 2021, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) (Public Law 117-58, also known as the “Bipartisan Infrastructure Law”) became law. A five-year plan provides $1.2 trillion to the states during fiscal years 2022 through 2026 as a Federal investment in infrastructure and transportation, including in roads, bridges, mass transit, water infrastructure, resilience, and broadband. The law is making the single largest dedicated bridge investment since the construction of the U.S. interstate highway system.

Zhou commented,  “I’m a ‘bridge guy.’ It’s rewarding to see the completion of bridges built by me and my colleagues. Roads and bridges connect communities and the infrastructure as a whole – they are essential in linking companies, communications, and economies.”

Looking back on his experiences at CU Denver, Zhou credits his faculty mentors and advantageous internship opportunities in preparing him well for today’s global job market.

“When I was a student, the founder/director of the Computer Engineering Management program, Kevin Rens, brought industry professionals to campus. We were able to network, ask questions directly, and were presented with opportunities to work on innovative projects.” Zhou was fortunate to be able to intern with a team that included members of a professional engineering firm, CU Denver’s College of Engineering, Design, and Computing, and the City and County of Denver.

To international students and recent graduates, he recommends finding a good mentor as well as developing strong communication skills.

“I experienced a well-rounded education at the University of Colorado Denver,” concluded Zhou. “A degree from CU Denver led me to contacts and job opportunities. Alumni can take their knowledge and experiences with them on their chosen career trajectory back in their home country and in other countries.”

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Employment Opportunities During School & Up to 3 Years After Graduation

Eligible CU Denver | Anschutz international students take advantage of internships during their education through Curricular Practical Training (CPT), and Optional Practical Training (OPT) upon graduation. With more than 50 degree programs eligible for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) OPT, the university is an international students’ gateway to professional development and work experience and a successful career in their home country or other global regions.

Professional Development & Work Experience in Colorado

Colorado’s economy is one of the strongest in the United States, home to a diverse array of industries. The state’s infrastructure engineering industry includes more than 10,000 engineering, design, and construction firms that are involved in civil, commercial, and environmental projects throughout the world, including water systems; highways, streets and bridges; urban/commercial development; and infrastructure that delivers traditional and renewable energy. Top international export partners for this industry sector include Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, and Sweden; top import partners include Germany, China, and Italy. The state’s infrastructure, which includes Denver International Airport and an expansive network of highways and railroads, is one of the many reasons why corporate headquarters are moved here and start-ups prosper. (Source: Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade [OEDIT])

Learn more:

Office of International Affairs

Employment Opportunities for International Students

CU Denver | Anschutz Course Catalogs            

Undergraduate

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