After attending a university for two years after high school, Brian Kuch realized it wasn’t for him. So, he moved home and found a job in construction. 

Over several years, he worked his way up to become a project manager for Moltus Building Group in Hemlock. Brian, a Bay City resident, wanted to advance his career even further, so he decided to give college another try and enrolled at Delta as a part-time student so he could continue working full time.  

“Delta was a good fit for me because I didn’t have to sacrifice my job,” Brian said. “My instructors worked with my schedule so that I could fit in classes while working. Delta offers a lot of night, weekend and online classes, which really helped. And they work with people to fit school into their life.” 

 In spring 2021, Brian received the William R. Collings Award of Excellence, one of the highest honors a Delta student can receive. It recognizes a student who has demonstrated academic achievement and superior citizenship. Brian received his associate’s degree in 2021 and plans to go on to complete his bachelor’s degree through Delta’s 3+1 program with Northwood University. 

 “Before I came to Delta, I never imagined I would get a bachelor’s degree. It seemed way too unrealistic. But coming to Delta has helped me see the bigger picture. Getting a bachelor’s degree is achievable, and I can do it,” he said. 

Graduating with no debt

While he’s still paying off student loans from his time at the university, Brian said he was able to attend Delta for free through scholarships and financial aid. When he started taking classes, he didn’t have a laptop. Through his scholarship support, he was able to purchase one. 

He said his instructors are what really made his Delta experience. 

“They remember me and notice me, and they are willing to work with you on things and that’s really nice. You get a lot more individual instruction and one-on-one time with them,” he said. 

 

It wasn’t until he started working and attending Delta that Brian learned there’s a middle ground. 
  
“You don’t have to do a traditional four-year degree. You can get a certificate or an associate’s degree and get work experience while doing it,” he said. “When I was 18, I didn’t know what I wanted to do for the rest of my life, and after a few years, I started studying construction management because that’s what I was interested in.” 

Are you interested in starting a career in construction management? Learn more at go.delta.edu/constructionmanagement.