In November, Assistant Director of Campus Services DeAnthony Thomas, Refuse Collector/Driver Justin Luera and Facilities Communications Manager Erica Vazquez had the opportunity to engage with over 120 students at Black Elementary in Aldine Independent School District on the various career opportunities within Facilities/Construction Management at University of Houston. 

In addition to career opportunities, Thomas also took the time to educate the students on the safety precautions around solid waste trucks. The students were fascinated with the demonstration from Luera that showed how the solid waste truck picks up the trash containers on campus.

The elementary aged participants were surprised to learn how many students attend UH and the number of buildings on campus. Vazquez explained how to do the UH Cougar hand sign by folding the ring finger and thumb of the right hand toward the palm. The students were happy to engage and cheer ‘Go Coogs!’ while proudly waving the Cougar hand sign.

This opportunity came from multiple conversations and department collaboration. Thomas had been searching for a purposeful way to get the solid waste truck out on the freeway because that is part of the maintenance needed while he also wanted to help educate children on staying a safe distance around solid waste trucks. In the same month, a colleague within the F/CM department shared the career day information.

Facilities/Construction Management looks forward to engaging in mutually beneficial opportunities.