Dale Bone, Sr. Scholarship Awarded to Two Motivated Students

Dale Bone, Sr., a pioneer in the concrete industry and co-founder of Brundage-Bone Concrete Pumping was a dedicated advocate of the industry and a long-serving ACPA Board Member. In his honor, the Bone family established a one-time scholarship fund using the generous contributions made in his memory.  This scholarship will support future generations while preserving Dale’s enduring legacy.

MARIO MELO

I have chosen concrete industry management at Chico State because it is the perfect fit for my academic and personal goals. My background is in the construction industry, beginning with my family’s concrete business. My experience and interests align seamlessly with what Chico has to offer.

As a child, I grew up surrounded by the world of construction and concrete. My first memories are visiting job sites with my father. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work alongside people like project managers who play important roles in construction. My father, who also became my mentor, allowed me to get practical, hands-on experience starting at a very young age. I was allowed to help estimate budgets, create project designs using geometric patterns and pour concrete. Each project deepened my knowledge and passion for this field and served as a training ground for my future career.

Chico State’s concrete industry management program matches my aspirations and goals perfectly. Although the practical experience I have gained on the job site is invaluable, I understand the importance of a formal education to expand and complement it. I already have commitment in the concrete industry and will have commitment to the academic rigor and practical applications Chico State has to offer. I look forward to immersing myself in the complex curriculum and gaining a stronger foundation in the concrete industry.

I hope to learn the skills and techniques that will carry our family business forward into the future, and I chose to study at Chico State because it represents more than a college, but is also a place where my aspirations and opportunities converge.

At the end of the day, it all comes down to effort. And as long as it is a question of effort, I am confident I will succeed in this industry. The unwavering determination that my family instilled in me from a young age working in the business will allow me to succeed both inside and outside of the classroom.

CAMPBELL BROUK

My name is Campbell Brouk, a sophomore at the University of Oklahoma, majoring in finance and construction management. Growing up in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, I was naturally drawn to construction. My interest was sparked at a young age, largely due to my mother’s nearly 30-year career in a concrete pumping business. I vividly remember the days when we first moved in and concrete pumps would arrive at our house to pour concrete in the backyard. Watching the pumps in action fascinated me and seemed like the coolest job ever! My passion for construction, combined with my academic success, provides me with a strong foundation for success.

In high school, I engaged in extracurricular activities, particularly in sports. As the team captain of the water polo team, I developed both leadership and organizational skills, in addition to learning the importance of discipline and hard work. At the University of Oklahoma, I am actively involved in Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity, where I serve as the academic chairman. In this role, I mentor fellow students, organize study sessions and promote academic excellence within the fraternity. This position has strengthened my leadership skills, taught me the value of teamwork and reinforced my commitment to academic and personal growth.

My professional experiences have further solidified my career choice. Working as a laborer at Dreamstead Properties, I gained hands-on experience in household remodeling projects, utilizing my adaptability skills and attention to detail. Operating heavy machinery for B&R Snow Removal and ESS Schneider Snow provided me with useful skills in handling construction equipment. These roles required planning, execution and efficiency, often under challenging and adverse weather conditions. I learned how to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, communicate with team members and ensure safety protocols were followed.

Looking ahead, my long-term goal is to become a project manager in the construction industry, with a specialization in concrete pumping and construction equipment. I am particularly interested in innovative construction techniques and sustainable building practices. I plan to utilize my background in finance to manage construction projects effectively, ensuring they are both economically practical and environmentally sustainable.

While I have been fortunate to receive an Academic Achievement Scholarship, the cost of tuition and other educational expenses remain significant. My family has always emphasized the value of hard work and education, but financial constraints pose a challenge. This scholarship would greatly alleviate the financial burden, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on the stress of covering educational costs.

In conclusion, my dedication to the field of construction and engineering, combined with my leadership capabilities, personal connection to the industry, professional experience and strong academic record make me a worthy candidate for this scholarship. I am committed to making a positive impact in the construction industry and am eager to continue my journey with the support of this scholarship. Thank you for considering my application.