Civil Engineering Alumnus Luis Mujica is a Project Engineer for PJ Dick, Inc. Alumni Profile

Why did you choose Point Park University?

I chose Point Park because it put me in the best position to succeed with my academics and my baseball career. The level of organization the University offers in its support of student-athletes was the main reason I was able to always plan ahead and be well-prepared each semester when I had to take high-level engineering classes while playing 40-plus games on the road.

Which faculty and staff had a significant impact on you?

I will always be grateful to John Ashaolu, director of athletics, Kevin Taylor, associate athletic director and the baseball coaching staff, especially Coach Loren Torres. Their positive impact on the baseball team and the athletics department overall has been enormous, and I know that part of the University's success is directly attached to the great work they do. 

I would also like to recognize the entire engineering faculty, especially Robert Garson and Yan Liu, who were always there to support me throughout my time at Point Park. They are truly passionate about what they do, and that translates into a high level of education that allows students to develop and become strong engineers.

How did your involvement in Point Park athletics enhance your college experience?

Athletics was an extremely important part of my Point Park experience because it gave me a sense of belonging. The baseball team spends a lot of time together, and I was able to create some of the strongest friendships in my life.

⚾️🎓 @PointParkU student-athlete alum Luis Mujica ('22) traded in his catcher's helmet for a hard hat.

He's was hired as Project Engineer at PJ Dick before he even graduated. Read more about Luis: https://t.co/SxJ7zbTXIF@PPUBaseball #NAIA pic.twitter.com/IISjDHkknM

— Point Park University Athletics (@PointParkSports) June 5, 2023

Describe your job and what you enjoy about it.

A project engineer is mainly a bridge between the parties involved during construction. I am responsible for all the technical and engineering aspects of my projects. What I enjoy about my position is that I also get to work in the field, and there is always something new to do, which makes my daily tasks more dynamic. I am currently working on a project for a major wastewater treatment authority, and an industrial project of this magnitude is a great learning experience. I am able to visualize the work of each discipline that involves civil engineering and how each one contributes to developing the country's infrastructure with innovative solutions to serve our community while preserving our environment.

How did Point Park prepare you for career success?

Point Park prepared me in every aspect for a civil engineering career. It is essential that engineers understand the purpose and thought process behind what is being built. Through all the classes and assignments that I completed, I developed a strong foundation of knowledge that has allowed me to understand different problems and create my own identity as a professional. 

During my time at Point Park, I was exposed to different environments that gave me the opportunity to explore what the real world looks like. Teamwork, critical thinking, attention to detail, humility and respect are some of the many skills that I developed. Now that I am working in the field, I realize how much Point Park's engineering faculty went above and beyond when it came to presenting students with real-life situations to prepare us for our careers. We were always encouraged to innovate and understand that, as engineers, we have to always strive for excellence to make a difference.

What did you like about living and learning in Downtown Pittsburgh?

Being located in Downtown Pittsburgh made my experience very special. The advantage of being within walking distance of so many different places kept everything fun, especially during study breaks or weekends when I was able to go out and explore amazing views and great restaurants. On the academic side, it is very important to appreciate and analyze how engineering is constantly being used to serve the community, and being able to walk around historic landmarks like the Fort Pitt Bridge, the Allegheny County Courthouse and many different, innovative structures that were designed for the public's needs gave me a deeper understanding of what engineering is about.

What advice do you have for current engineering students?

Enjoy every step of the way. Engineering is not an easy major, but it is very rewarding. During my first semester, it became difficult to transition into high-level courses, but that challenge only taught me that pressure is a privilege that makes you grow as a person and professional when you learn how to embrace it. Give it your all, and I am sure that in the end, it will be worth the effort.

Why would you recommend Point Park to a prospective student?

Point Park goes further than just providing education. Faculty and staff take into consideration that you are a human being, and the campus culture makes it clear that every student will be supported throughout their journey regardless of their life situation. Point Park was and continues to be my home. It will give you the tools you need to be successful. 

Point Park's Civil Engineering Technology program has been discontinued, but we now offer a Bachelor of Science degree program in Civil Engineering. Learn more. 

Learn more about engineering at Point Park in the video below:

Connect with Luis Mujica '22

More About: faculty, student athletes, athletics, Pittsburgh, Downtown Pittsburgh, success story, School of Arts and Sciences, civil engineering, alumni