Williamson College of the Trades and Rowan University announced today the creation of a historic academic partnership that provides Williamson students with a new pathway toward a bachelor’s degree in construction management.
The agreement allows Williamson students seeking an Associate in Specialized Technology (AST) degree to receive dual credit for approved courses toward a Certificate of Undergraduate Study from Rowan University in either construction or project management.
The stackable certificate enables students to earn their credentials in carpentry, electrical, or masonry trade programs, while also earning course credits toward a Bachelor of Arts in construction management, offered online through the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering. The degree program is designed to meet the educational needs of the construction industry by training entry-level construction managers and by providing continuing education for construction employees.
Both institutions received transformational gifts from Henry Rowan, an entrepreneur and philanthropist who saw a need for a highly skilled, technical workforce. An engineer who founded the company later known as Inductotherm Group, Rowan considered the donations as investments in the future.
“Nationally, there is an industry need for a highly trained, highly skilled workforce. To better meet that need, we’re bridging the trades and higher education,” said Rowan University Provost Tony Lowman. “Mr. Rowan invested in our institutions to look at education differently and to produce talented engineers and skillful workers able to make a difference wherever they land. As this partnership demonstrates, Williamson is at the forefront of that work.”
“At the heart of this landmark agreement is opportunity, not just in providing an avenue for higher education, but an opportunity to change a student’s life through providing a gateway towards a rewarding life and career,” said Williamson College of the Trades Provost Todd Zachary. “Everyone involved in this endeavor has felt privileged to be able to honor the memory of Henry Rowan though the opportunity provided to students by this partnership.”
Jacob Newlin, a Williamson senior in the Electrical program commented that “Taking advantage of this educational partnership is an opportunity of a lifetime. Being able to take construction management classes while at Williamson that leads to a pathway to Rowan University is just a deal you cannot pass up.”
