Building Her Future: A Graduates Full-Circle Journey
Coming full circle, Emma, a graduate of Pine Technical & Community College (PTCC), is now contributing professionally to the college’s ongoing Tech/Trades Expansion and Renovation Project as part of her career as an Associate Project Manager with BCI Construction.
A 2022 graduate of Mora High School, Emma chose PTCC after initially planning to attend a four-year university. A pivotal conversation with PTCC President Joe Mulford (a family friend) helped her realize that a traditional path wasn’t the only option and that choosing PTCC was the right decision for her future. Emma enrolled in PTCC’s Associate of Arts (AA) Liberal Arts program, completing her degree while working full-time as an online student. She credits the college’s flexibility, affordability, and supportive faculty with setting a strong foundation for her continued education. “PTCC allowed me to work full-time and graduate debt-free,” she said.
After graduating from PTCC, Emma transferred to Bemidji State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Applied Management with a focus on Construction Management in 2025. She is now completing her Master of Business Administration at the same institution, with graduation expected this spring.
Today, Emma serves as an Associate Project Manager at BCI Construction, where she oversees projects from initial bidding through completion. Her responsibilities include budgeting, scheduling, coordinating subcontractors, and leading meetings to ensure projects are successfully delivered. “PTCC played a key role in preparing me for my career,” Emma said. “It helped me build communication and leadership skills that are essential in construction project management.”
During the early stages of PTCC’s Tech/Trades Expansion and Renovation Project, Emma worked as a project coordinator with BCI Construction, supporting project managers and collaborating with subcontractors and stakeholders. “It was incredibly meaningful to work on a project that impacts a place that meant so much to me,” she said. “Being part of this transformation is something I will never forget.”
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Emma values time spent with family and staying active. A certified personal trainer, she enjoys working out and exploring new hobbies.
Reflecting on her journey, Emma encourages future students to embrace their own path. “There’s a lot of pressure to follow a certain route after high school, but there’s no one ‘right’ way,” she said. “PTCC gave me the opportunity to stay close to family, grow personally and professionally, and build a future that felt right for me.”
PTCC’s Tech/Trades Expansion and Renovation Project represents a significant investment in hands-on learning environments and workforce training, making Emma’s role in the project a powerful example of student success coming full circle.