From Mechanical Construction to Education: How Marie Patterson is Shaping Construction’s Future
This story is part of our Skilled AF podcast series, spotlighting diverse and inspiring voices connected to the skilled trades & construction community.
Marie Patterson is a force in construction. As the first female Chair of Chico State’s Construction Management Department, she’s making major impact on the future workforce. With 15+ years in the field, working for major plumbing and mechanical contractors specializing in large process piping, Marie’s journey has come full circle—returning to Chico State to blend real-world experience with education to guide the next generation of leaders into the construction industry. Beyond the classroom, she’s an advisor to construction student clubs, ASC Mechanical Team Coach, and was recognized as MCAA’s Teacher of the Year (2022-23).
In this interview we cover:
Choosing Construction – Why Marie pursued construction management and how that decision shaped her career
Breaking into the Industry – Her start at a plumbing and mechanical contractor specializing in large process piping—and where it led her
Boomeranging Back to Chico State – From industry to academia and why she returned to teach
Evolving Construction Education – How she’s integrating hands-on learning, partnering with Ag Mechanics, and fostering respect for the trades
Sustainability & Climate Resilience – The role of construction in mitigating climate change, wildfire adaptation, and resilience strategies
Recruiting the Next Generation – How she’s attracting students into construction management
Almost 100% Job Placement – How her students land $70K-$100K starting salaries, thanks to a high-ROI degree with built-in paid internships
What’s Holding the Industry Back – Her POV on the biggest barrier to attracting new talent into construction
Advice to Her Younger Self – Words of wisdom for the next generation of builders and leaders
