13/03/2026
This is a positive development in the region, and it’s worth an investment in building capacity.
The University of Guam is expanding its School of Engineering with a new Bachelor of Science in Construction Management, set to launch in Fall 2026 to help meet growing workforce demands in Guam’s construction industry.
University officials say the program responds to increasing demand for trained professionals as billions of dollars in federal and private investments tied to military buildup and infrastructure development drive construction activity across Guam and the region.
“For UOG, this is about building capacity for Guam and Micronesia,” said Anita Borja Enriquez, president of the university. “This program supports demand in multiple industries that will enhance and sustain growth for years to come.”
The degree program will be housed within the School of Engineering and builds on the university’s ABET-accredited Civil Engineering program. More than two-thirds of the coursework will draw from existing engineering and science classes, allowing the program to launch efficiently while maintaining academic standards.
Students will receive training in project management, cost estimation, scheduling, safety oversight and construction site operations. The program will also emphasize internships and industry partnerships to help prepare graduates for careers in the construction sector.
Hiroshan Hettiarachchi, dean of the School of Engineering, said the program addresses long-standing workforce shortages in Guam and Micronesia.
“For years, employers have had to compete for a limited number of qualified professionals or recruit from off island,” Hettiarachchi said. “This program allows us to grow our own talent — individuals who understand our island context and the unique challenges of building in the Pacific.”
The new degree is part of a broader expansion of UOG’s engineering programs following the opening of the school’s new engineering building in January 2026.
University officials also announced plans to launch a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering in Fall 2027 to further expand career pathways for students interested in engineering fields.
By: Guam News Staff
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Photo courtesy of UOG.
