With this goal in mind, a student exchange concept was developed between the University of Nebraska – Kearney (UNK), Construction Management program and the University of Rostock, Germany, Department of Civil Engineering. The exchange concentrated on weighing the merits of wood frame construction typical in the U.S.  Since most structures in Germany (and much of Europe) are masonry and/or concrete, it was a logical partnership.

Over eight phases and as many years, the students from each of the universities traveled across the Atlantic to learn more about each other’s technology and lives. Students from UNK and UR worked on projects like building a "Habitat for Humanity" house in Kearney, pictured. Not only have the students helped American families, they also built an 8500 square foot daycare center in Rostock, Germany, in three weeks using contemporary management techniques.

They have designed and constructed an orphanage in Mexico's Yucatan, worked with builders in both Germany and the U.S., and attended classes on engineering design, building codes, fire protection and safety. The students learned about the wood frame system of building and design while creating a great opportunity for cross cultural experiences and exchange.

Ten UNK students will travel this summer with Dr. Larson to Wismar, Germany. “In the ideal world, every university educated student should have the opportunity to work and live with someone of another culture before entering the world of work,” says Dr. Larson. “Students are forever changed after such an experience.”

Allowing students a variety of learning experiences has paid off for UNK. The Construction Management program has grown from 10 majors to 150 since its inception in 1991. Job placement is 100% with annual starting salaries at $40,000+.