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BRISTOL, R.I. – When Max Collins first arrived at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ, he did not expect to leave as an award-winning scholar and nationally recognized competitor. Reserved and focused, Collins concentrated on academics as he found purpose in campus life and balanced new responsibilities.

Today, the senior Construction Management major with a Business minor is preparing to attend the  (AGC) Annual Convention after earning first place in the 2026 James L. Allhands Essay Contest – a milestone that reflects not only academic achievement, but personal growth.

“My time here has shown me the possibilities of what you can achieve if you really take advantage of opportunities,” Collins said. “It’s easy to just go to class and go back to your room. But when you start putting yourself out there, that’s what really makes the difference.”

A native of Rockport, Mass., Collins attended a vocational high school where he studied carpentry and initially planned to enter the workforce after graduation. As he began exploring long-term options, he realized he wanted a path that would keep him connected to the construction industry while expanding his opportunities. 

While researching colleges, Collins found that many construction programs leaned heavily toward business theory rather than hands-on learning. At �鶹ɫ��Ƭ, he discovered a balance of practical lab work and management training that aligned with his goals.

“A lot of the programs I looked at were more management than construction,” he said. “I really liked that at Roger, you still get that hands-on learning with the labs. It felt more real.”

Once on campus, Collins focused first on adjusting to student life. Although he joined student organizations during his first year, he became more deeply involved during his sophomore year when he served as a Resident Assistant for Cedar Hall – a leadership role that helped him build confidence and strengthen his connection to the campus community.

During his junior year, Collins studied abroad in Australia for six months, an experience he said broadened his perspective and reinforced his commitment to making the most of his remaining time at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ.

A pivotal moment in his academic career came shortly after he returned. Collins competed in the Associated Schools of Construction (ASC) Region 1 competition in Albany, N.Y., where he and his team earned first place in the Concrete Open category.

The six-person team was tasked with analyzing plans and specifications for the construction of three buildings on a hospital campus. They developed a proposal addressing site logistics and calculated the materials, labor, and equipment needed to complete the project – applying classroom knowledge to a complex, real-world challenge.

Collins said the win strengthened his confidence and shifted how he viewed his professional future. The connections he made through the competition also helped him begin building relationships within the industry.

Back on campus, he returned to his studies with renewed focus, determined to gain as many experiences as possible before graduation.

Encouraged by Professor of Construction Management Amine Ghanem, Collins later submitted an essay to the James L. Allhands Essay Contest through the Associated Schools of Construction. His essay, which addressed leadership and innovation in the construction industry, was ultimately named this year’s winner of the prestigious award.

The honor includes a $1,000 prize and an invitation to attend the AGC Annual Convention in Orlando, Fla., where Collins will participate in events and connect with construction leaders from across the country.

After graduation, Collins will join Windover Construction under its , a two-year rotational training program that provides experience in project management, estimating, and field operations.

Looking back, Collins says stepping outside his comfort zone made the difference.

“Looking back, I realized that stepping out of my comfort zone, seeking opportunities, and applying what I’ve learned made all the difference,” Collins said. “The opportunities at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ showed me that with preparation and persistence, you can turn challenges into achievements and set yourself up for the next step in your career.”