MdQI Career Day Inspires Next Generation of Transportation & Construction Leaders

Baltimore, MD – May 20, 2025

More than 360 middle and high school students from across Baltimore and surrounding areas gathered at Coppermine Du Burns Arena for the annual MdQI Engineering and Construction Career Day; a high-energy, hands-on event designed to spark interest in the fields of transportation, construction, and engineering.

Hosted by the Maryland Quality Initiative (MdQI) Outreach Committee, the Career Day provided a unique opportunity for students to engage directly with professionals, explore interactive exhibits, and gain real-world insight into careers that literally shape the world around them.

Over 20 private engineering firms and representatives from the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) and Maryland Ready Mix Concrete Association (MRMCA) participated, offering live demonstrations, equipment tours, and STEM-based activities. Students were able to experience everything from flying drones to exploring the inner workings of SHA fleet vehicles, guided by Facility Maintenance Technicians Jake Martin and Chris Brown.

Bashan McLeod, Transportation Engineer with SHA’s Office of Transportation Mobility and Operations and Engineering Chair of the MdQI Outreach Committee, welcomed students and led them through a vendor hall packed with opportunities to learn and connect. She was joined by key MdQI leaders including Teri Soos, Deputy Chief Operations Officer of Hanover and MdQI Co-Chair; Michael Sakata, President and CEO of MTBMA and MdQI Co-Chair; and Dee Dee Kennedy of MRMCA, Construction Co-Chair of the MdQI Outreach Committee.

“Our goal with the MdQI Engineering and Construction Career Day is to spark curiosity, build confidence, and show students what’s possible,” said McLeod. “By immersing them in hands-on experiences and letting them meet the people behind the work, we’re planting seeds that could grow into lifelong careers.”

This year’s event aligns with MdQI’s ongoing mission to strengthen the talent pipeline into Maryland’s transportation and construction workforce. With a focus on diversity, mentorship, and early exposure, Career Day continues to be a vital part of building the next generation of engineers, project managers, tradespeople, and public service leaders for Maryland’s infrastructure future.