The future of the construction industry begins long before a graduate steps onto their first jobsite, it starts in the classroom. Through the University of Houston’s Industry Advisory Board (IAB), industry leaders volunteer their time and expertise to ensure students are equipped with the knowledge, practical experience, and professional skills needed to thrive in today’s construction industry. Among those dedicated leaders is Dan Hlavac, President of the Industry Advisory Board.
Dan’s journey with the University of Houston began as a student in 2002, where he studied Civil Engineering. After graduating and beginning his career with Harvey, he remained passionate about improving the educational experience for future students. In 2007, the newly appointed director of the construction program invited him to attend an Industry Advisory Board meeting. While appreciative of the invitation, Dan quickly realized the board had lost its sense of purpose.
“At the time, the meetings lacked direction,” Dan recalls. “The university had lost its accreditation, and there was an opportunity to rebuild something meaningful.”
Following the meeting, the program director asked Dan for his honest opinion. His response was straightforward: if the program was going to move forward, the board needed fresh leadership, a renewed vision, and a stronger connection to the construction industry. The director agreed, appointing Dan as Board President and giving him the opportunity to lead that transformation.
With the support of a newly assembled board of approximately 25 industry professionals, Dan focused on one mission, restoring the program’s credibility while ensuring students were prepared for careers in commercial construction. The board introduced greater involvement from both general contractors and specialty subcontractors, bringing valuable real world perspectives directly into the curriculum.
Their hard work paid off. Around 2010, the University of Houston successfully regained its accreditation, marking a major milestone for the program. Rather than slowing down, the board shifted its focus toward continuous improvement.
One of its most significant accomplishments has been the complete transformation of the curriculum. As construction technology and industry expectations evolved, so did the program. Today, students graduate with exposure to industry leading software, OSHA safety training, and practical knowledge that reflects the realities of today’s construction environment.
Recognizing Houston’s diverse construction market, the board also played a key role in expanding the program. Around 2015, the curriculum was restructured to allow students to specialize in either commercial or industrial construction after completing a shared educational foundation. This approach better prepares graduates for the unique demands of each sector while maintaining a strong understanding of the industry as a whole.
The board’s commitment extends well beyond the classroom. Students regularly participate in jobsite visits, gaining firsthand exposure to active construction projects and seeing classroom concepts applied in real world settings. These experiences help bridge the gap between theory and practice while giving students a clearer understanding of what to expect when they enter the workforce.
When asked what qualities today’s graduates need most, Dan’s answer is simple: integrity, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn.
He believes construction is one of the few industries where no two days are ever the same.
“Every project presents new challenges,” he explains. “Technology continues to evolve, materials improve, and every day offers an opportunity to solve problems and work together as a team. That’s what makes this industry so rewarding.”
Beyond curriculum development, the Industry Advisory Board continues to invest heavily in the future of construction education. What began as a group of approximately 25 volunteers has grown into a network of more than 60 dedicated industry professionals. Most recently, the board partnered with the University of Houston to help secure a $500,000 professorship endowment, providing long-term support for attracting and retaining exceptional faculty to educate future generations of construction leaders.
Dan is equally passionate about creating opportunities outside the classroom. The board encourages networking events, cookouts, volunteer projects, and community outreach initiatives that allow students to build relationships, develop leadership skills, and understand the importance of giving back. The board welcomes professionals from companies of all sizes who share a passion for supporting students and strengthening the industry.
Looking back on nearly two decades of service, Dan remains driven by the same purpose that inspired him to become involved in the first place, to create a better experience for future students than the one he experienced himself.
“I wanted to help build a program that truly prepares students for the construction industry,” he says. “When students succeed, our industry succeeds.”
His dedication continues to shape the future of construction education, ensuring that graduates leave the University of Houston not only with a degree, but with the confidence, experience, and industry connections needed to build successful careers.
Looking ahead, Dan believes the Industry Advisory Board plays a vital role in strengthening the construction industry by helping companies build a more capable workforce. By ensuring university programs reflect the realities of today’s jobsites, businesses gain access to graduates who are better prepared, understand current industry practices, and require less time to adapt to the workplace. The result is a stronger hiring pipeline that benefits employers of all sizes, allowing them to recruit qualified professionals who are ready to contribute from day one while helping move the industry forward.
That same commitment to developing future industry leaders is shared by David Maniscalco, President of TruPoint Builders, who joined the University of Houston Industry Advisory Board in March 2025. One of his first opportunities to serve as a board member was attending the University’s 2025–2026 graduation ceremony, where he had the privilege of celebrating graduates as they prepared to begin their careers.
“Giving back is incredibly rewarding,” David shares. “Being part of a group that helps students gain real-world experience and prepares them for successful careers is something I’m truly passionate about. The stronger we prepare today’s workforce, the stronger our industry becomes.”
Together, Dan Hlavac and David Maniscalco represent a shared commitment to investing in the future of the construction industry. Through their service on the University of Houston Industry Advisory Board, they are helping strengthen the partnership between education and industry, ensuring students graduate with practical knowledge, real-world experience, and the skills today’s employers need. In turn, construction companies benefit from a growing pipeline of highly qualified, career-ready professionals who are equipped to make an immediate impact from day one.