Engineering Major Says Hands-On Learning Experiences Have Prepared Him for Success

Throughout his time as a Charger, Pedro Martinez ’19, a civil engineering major, made a positive impact at the University, in the local community, and on a village more than 3,000 miles from campus.

May 17, 2019

By Renee Chmiel, Office of Marketing and Communications

As Commencement approaches, we’ll introduce you to some members of the University’s Class of 2019. Next up is Pedro Martinez ’19, a civil engineering major, who has fond memories of hosting a radio show and of taking part in a milestone moment of the development of the Bergami Center for Science, Technology, and Innovation.

An active member of the University of New Haven community, Pedro Martinez ’19, a civil engineering major, made a difference in the lives of his classmates. A tutor in the University’s writing center for three years, Martinez also connected with students – and the local community – through WNHU, the University’s award-winning radio station.

"I host my own radio show that brings positive and encouraging messages to listeners," said Martinez. "I have enjoyed doing this during all four of my years at the University."

Martinez, who also participated in service learning experiences with the city of West Haven and Habitat for Humanity, didn’t just make an impact on the local community. As a member of the University’s chapter of Engineers Without Borders, he and several classmates worked with the people of San Lucas, Ecuador, to develop effective methods for providing clean drinking water.

That experience – as well as his work with professional engineers in the field on several design projects – enabled him to apply what he learned in class.

"Because of the small class sizes, I got to know my professors and classmates," said Martinez. "We engaged in stimulating conversations, connecting what we discussed in class to real-world examples. I applied what I learned to all of the projects I have worked on."

"I fondly remember the moment I had the opportunity to sign the last beam for the Bergami Center for Science, Technology, and Innovation. It was truly a great moment and an honor to be a part of this with amazing faculty, staff, and students."Pedro Martinez ’19

As Martinez readies for Commencement, he is also preparing to begin his career. He has accepted a position as a staff engineer at BL Companies, a firm listed among the top 500 design firms in the country that provides architecture, engineering, environmental, and land surveying services. He also plans to pursue his professional engineer license.

Martinez is grateful for the opportunities he has had at the University. One of his favorite memories was leaving a mark that cannot easily be seen.

"I fondly remember the moment I had the opportunity to sign the last beam for the Bergami Center for Science, Technology, and Innovation," he said. "It was truly a great moment and an honor to be a part of this with amazing faculty, staff, and students."