Building Tomorrow’s Leaders: Meet the Vice President of CU Denver’s AGC Chapter

Student Spotlight: Vice President of CU Denver’s Associated General Contractors (AGC) Chapter, Cole Willis

Cole, a native of north Denver, grew up in Arvada, Broomfield, and Erie, Colorado. His journey in education began at Legacy High School in Broomfield, followed by two years at Front Range Community College before transferring to the University of Colorado Denver (UCD). Now a dedicated student at UCD, Cole has found his passion for construction management, a field that has been close to his heart from a young age.

Growing up around the construction industry, Cole developed a deep appreciation for seeing projects come to life. “The joy of watching something go from an idea to a physical reality is unmatched,” he shares. This hands-on experience has shaped his career ambitions, and he’s driven by a desire to find more sustainable building practices. Cole sees the construction industry as a powerful way to make a difference in how we interact with our environment, and he’s keen on integrating new technologies into traditional construction methods.

As Vice President of CU Denver’s Associated General Contractors (AGC) Chapter, Cole plays a key role in fostering leadership and collaboration among his peers. His commitment to excellence is evident in his participation in the ASC Competition, where he competes in Pre-construction, a demanding and technical field that requires problem-solving, teamwork, and forward-thinking solutions.

Beyond the classroom and construction site, Cole embraces Colorado’s outdoor lifestyle. He enjoys skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and exploring Denver’s vibrant food scene. An avid reader and dog lover, Cole balances his professional and personal life with ease, always finding time to enjoy the things he loves.

Looking ahead, Cole has ambitious goals. He aims to become a Project Manager for a Commercial General Contractor, with a unique vision of blending construction with the natural world. His innovative approach to merging sustainability with traditional construction methods is both refreshing and inspiring. Long-term, Cole envisions deepening his involvement in community projects and, eventually, moving to Montana to continue his career in a place where nature and construction meet harmoniously.

Cole’s story is one of passion, innovation, and leadership—a combination that promises to make a lasting impact on the future of construction management.