Each year, Simpson Strong-Tie awards one hundred and twenty $3,000 scholarships to students pursuing degrees in architecture, structural or civil engineering, and construction management. Every student recipient automatically becomes part of the Strong-Tie Undergraduate Fellowship, with access to professional resources, industry connections and ongoing support as they pursue their careers in creating the safer and stronger structures that our communities rely on.
Along with the financial assistance these scholarships provide, each recipient is also invited to join the Simpson Strong-Tie team on our annual Strong-Tie Undergraduate Fellowship field trip, which comprises a visit to our home office in Pleasanton, California, our manufacturing plant and research lab in Stockton, and various sites around the San Francisco Bay Area. Coming from all over the United States, each of these students gets an inside look at how an industry-leading company operates. As students enter the new school year, let this year’s scholarship recipients tell us in their own words what they experienced on their field trip.
Guest Speaker: Ramon Rodriguez Dueñas
Name: Isabel Guzman
Age: 22
Major: Civil Engineering
University: California State, Fullerton
Current Work: Structural Engineering Intern at ACCO Engineered Systems
On the first day of the Strong-Tie Undergraduate Fellowship field trip, the other scholarship recipients and I traveled from all over the country and arrived in Pleasanton, California, to begin our experience. We started our first full day of activities on Tuesday, as we were greeted by the Simpson team and given an overview on the background of the company, their products and why they do what they do.
After hearing about Simpson Strong-Tie, we were introduced to our guest speaker, Ramon Rodriguez Dueñas, who told us about his experience as a civil engineer and project manager. Ramon was a recipient of the Student Scholarship in 2023 and emphasized the importance of the connections he had made during his year’s field trip. We listened to the professional journey he has taken throughout his lifetime, from having to switch schools during high school to becoming the first engineer in his family. He continued by sharing personal stories about how he learned to overcome imposter syndrome and grow confidence within his field, giving us the reassurance that I think many of us were looking for.
Ramon’s story brought me a sense of relief I didn’t know I needed. Navigating higher education in the engineering field was extremely intimidating for me as I entered college. I found myself constantly questioning whether I was on the right path, but Ramon is proof that our goals are attainable through hard work and dedication. As we wrapped up the Q&A to Ramon’s presentation, the other students and I walked away with strengthened optimism about the future ahead of us.
Alcatraz Tour in San Francisco
Name: Lisa Anoka
Age: 18
Major: Architecture
University: Texas Tech University
Current Work: Student Assistant, Huckabee College of Architecture at Texas Tech University
After listening to Ramon, we started our afternoon in San Francisco at Pier 33, where we were getting ready to take the ferry to Alcatraz. While we were waiting in line, I got to talk with Angel Leon and found out that he knew a previous Simpson scholar from Texas Tech who I’m friends with. We took a selfie to send to my friend, which made the moment even more fun and was a nice connection to have during the trip.
Once we boarded the ferry, I went straight to the top deck and stayed there for most of the ride, taking lots of pictures and enjoying the views of San Francisco from the water. Once we arrived at Alcatraz, we went through the cellhouse at our own pace using the self-guided audio tour. I liked being able to stop when something caught my attention instead of rushing through it. Hearing the audio tour while moving through the cellhouse helped me better understand the history connected to each space and gave more context to what we were seeing.
As an architecture student, I naturally paid attention to the building itself. One thing that stayed with me was the contrast between the openness outside — with incredible views across the bay — and the much more confined feeling once you entered the cellhouse. It made me think about how strongly architecture can affect the way a person experiences a place.
By the end of the tour, I wanted to keep learning about Alcatraz, so I bought a book about the island and a fridge magnet from the gift shop. I appreciated having an experience like this with the other scholarship recipients. The field trip gave us professional opportunities, but moments like this also gave us time to explore together and make memories outside of the scheduled sessions. I’m really grateful to Simpson Strong-Tie for creating a trip that gave us both.
Hands-On Building of Benches and Planter Boxes at the Stockton Facility
Name: Bailey Walden
Age: 21
Major: Architecture with a Minor in Landscape Architecture and City and Regional Planning
University: Clemson University
Current Work: McMillan Pazdan Smith
On Wednesday, after a full day of exploring San Francisco, we boarded the bus and left for the Simpson manufacturing facility in Stockton. As we arrived, we immediately got the chance to get hands-on experience and actually build something using Simpson Strong-Tie products! My partner, Weslie, and I chose to build a planter box that we learned would eventually be donated to local nonprofits like Mindful Littles and Camp Taylor.
As an architecture student, I’m used to designing and thinking about how things come together, but I had never actually built something on my own from scratch with power tools. So, when it was time to use a drill, I was definitely questioning whether I knew what I was doing! At the beginning, I was nervous and wondering how we were supposed to turn a pile of materials into a planter box, but thankfully, the Simpson Strong-Tie team was there to help us and answer any questions that came to mind. After some trial and error, Weslie and I began to get the hang of it, and our planter box started coming together.
We helped each other when we got stuck, probably laughed more than necessary and somehow managed to build a planter box without completely messing it up. While it was fun to learn how to use tools and actually build something with my hands for the first time, my favorite part was getting to build it with Weslie. Neither of us really knew what we were doing at first, so figuring it out together made the experience even more memorable. I walked into the warehouse nervous about using a drill, and walked out with a new skill, a planter box and a strong friendship that became one of my favorite parts of the trip, and we still talk to this day!
Tye Gilb Lab Tour
Name: Adan Aguirre
Age: 20
Major: Civil Engineering, Building Science
University: University of Southern California
Once we had all built our planter boxes and benches, we switched gears and began our tours of the facilities at the Stockton branch. Our tour began in the Tyrell Gilb Research Laboratory, where we were able to see how Simpson Strong-Tie tests their products’ strength and durability. Inside the lab, there were several large-scale machines that simulate natural forces and extreme weather conditions such as earthquakes and harsh winds. We were given specialized headphones that allowed for us to hear the speaker as we traversed the facility.
One of the most exciting parts about this tour was when we got to observe a RTUD ratcheting take-up device undergo tension testing. To our surprise, the product did not fail from the incredible amount of tension, it was actually the screw that fastened it which snapped. Seeing this happen really put into perspective for me just how strong these products are and how much testing goes into making sure they can perform correctly.
This experience gave me a great appreciation for the importance of the small components that go into making structures safe and sound. It was interesting to see that even something as simple as a connector or screw can play such an important role in the structural integrity of buildings. Seeing the amount of testing and engineering that goes into these products showed me that there really is no equal when it comes to the level of thought and care Simpson Strong-Tie puts into their products.
Stockton Plant Tour
Name: Matthew Gallegos
Age: 21
Major: Construction Management
University: University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Current Work: Product Engineer Intern for General Contractor
After exploring the Tye Gilb Lab, we got to tour the Simpson Strong-Tie’s manufacturing plant in Stockton, California. I knew that Simpson manufactured a wide variety of products, but it was difficult to fully understand the scale of the company before walking through the plant and seeing how many different processes take place under one roof.
One of my biggest takeaways was seeing how Simpson’s culture of adaptation and improvement is reflected directly in the processes of the plant. Similar to how the Tye Gilb Lab was designed with the future in mind, the manufacturing plant showed how the company continually adjusts its processes to meet changing customer needs. We saw examples such as the addition of a powder-coating assembly line and automated welding used for high-volume products, while also keeping space for human welding stations where employees fabricate custom pieces as needed. It showed me that manufacturing is not always a cut-and-dried process and that successful companies have to remain flexible.
I also really enjoyed seeing how much pride the employees took in their work. Seeing that the workers had customized their machines and workstations gave the space so much more personality than you would expect from a manufacturing plant. When you think of a huge plant like this, you probably don’t imagine a creative space where people are enjoying their job and taking pride in what they are helping create, but that’s exactly what the Stockton plant was. The pride in the company was visible everywhere, from the labs and engineers to the office staff and plant workers. By the end of the tour, I walked away with a much greater appreciation for Simpson’s understanding that there will always be opportunities to improve, adapt and grow, and that their people’s safety and satisfaction always come first.
Q&A Panel with Executive and Senior Leadership Teams
Name: Wenwen Qiu
Age: 21
Major: Architectural Engineering and Construction Management
University: California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Current Work: Project Engineer Intern at Pence Contractors
As we entered our second-to-last day of the trip on Thursday, I had the opportunity to join more than fifty other students in a Q&A session with the company’s executive and senior leadership team. Walking into that room and seeing the leaders of such a respected company sitting in front of us was something I’ll never forget. I expected something formal and intimidating, but instead it became an open and genuine conversation where everyone was encouraged to ask honest questions. Having the chance to speak directly with leaders from a company that has had such an impact on our industry was truly inspiring.
One of the most memorable moments for me was asking Emory Montague, also a Cal Poly graduate, what separates a good engineer from a great one. His response has stayed with me. He explained that while good engineers can solve technical problems and perform accurate calculations, great engineers also communicate effectively, collaborate with others and help the people around them succeed. That answer shifted the way I see my own path. I’ve always focused on building strong technical skills, but now I understand that engineering is ultimately about people.
Another message that resonated deeply came from CEO Mike Olosky, who encouraged us to find a personal “North Star” that’s bigger than money or titles. His advice challenged me to think beyond building a successful career, to building character and impact on the lives of people around me.
Looking back, I realize the Q&A was so much more than a leadership presentation. It was a rare opportunity to learn directly from leaders who were willing to share both their expertise and their values. I left the room feeling inspired, grateful and more motivated than ever to continue growing, not only as an engineer, but as a teammate, a future leader and a person. I’m sincerely thankful to Simpson Strong-Tie for investing in students like me and for providing an experience that I know will stay with me throughout my career.
Primrose Jobsite Tour
Name: Jacob Halterman
Age: 20
Major: Architecture
University: University of Oklahoma
After gaining advice and knowledge from the executive and senior leadership teams, we put on our personal protective equipment and made our way to our next tour, but this tour was a bit different from our previous ones. We got the opportunity to tour the Primrose active jobsite, and it was one of the most eye-opening excursions on our trip. As an architecture major entering my third year of college, I’ve learned the basics of how to design members of a structure, and seeing my homework problems embodied in an actual building undergoing construction reminded me that what I’m learning is important in the real world. Exploring the jobsite grounded my focus in ways that I haven’t experienced in my studio classes yet, and it was interesting to see a project go beyond the schematic phases.
Rachel Holland and Zac Thick were guiding my group, pointing out different Simpson fasteners and hardware. It was easily one of the more personable tours of the trip because we all got to ask what different products were, why they were there and why something was built in the order it was built in. We had some great conversations during the tour about specific problems and solutions, as well as techniques used for earthquake resistance. Learning technical details outside of typical design thinking was interesting, and I’ll be excited to apply what I learned at the jobsite to my studio projects this fall. Simpson Strong-Tie was able to introduce me to new construction concepts as well as new people from across the country, and I was able to make connections that could last me a lifetime.
Dinners at DaBoccery and Golden Tee Golfland
Name: Manuel Mota
Age: 31
Major: Construction Engineering Management
University: California State University, Long Beach
Current Work: Project Intern at Swinerton Builders
At the end of each day, we had the opportunity to step away from the academic side of the trip and spend time together in a more relaxed environment. At Da Boccery and Golden Tee Golfland, we ate, played games, competed with one another and, most importantly, had the chance to connect as a group. These activities allowed us to network while also getting to know each other beyond our majors, schools and professional interests.
One moment that especially stood out to me was when I was sitting at a table with Jacelyn and Andrew, and David Grissom took the time to join us. Rather than just having a quick conversation and moving on, David spent time talking with us and sharing some of the wisdom he’s gained through his own experiences. It felt like a genuine conversation rather than a formal networking interaction, and what he shared resonated with us. Moments like that made me appreciate how willing the Simpson Strong-Tie staff were to invest their time in getting to learn about us as people.
These activities were meaningful to me because they gave me the chance to build relationships that would have been much harder to develop during our structured academic activities. Throughout the day, we were learning together, but at Da Boccery and Golden Tee Golfland, we had the opportunity to simply enjoy each other’s company. Those conversations helped turn people I had just met into people I felt genuinely connected with.
I was also able to spend time talking with Jessica Saunders and Angel Leon. Both of them provided valuable advice and insight about their experiences and about Simpson Strong-Tie. What stood out to me was not only what they knew about the industry, but how approachable and welcoming they were when sharing that knowledge with us.
By the end of these dinners, I felt very fulfilled. Throughout the trip, I began understanding the significant impact Simpson Strong-Tie has within the architecture, engineering and construction community, but these experiences showed me another side of the company. I was able to see the people behind that impact and experience firsthand how willing they were to connect with students, share their experiences and offer guidance.
Looking back, Da Boccery and Golden Tee Golfland were more than just fun activities after a day of learning. They gave me a chance to build relationships, hear advice from people with valuable industry experience and become more comfortable with the group. I walked away grateful not only for what I was learning professionally, but also for the human connections I was making along the way.
Simpson Strong-Tie Intern Experience
Name: Rachel Harrison
Age: 21
Major: Communication
University: University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB)
Current Work: Digital Marketing and eBusiness Intern at Simpson Strong Tie
As an intern for Simpson Strong-Tie’s Digital Marketing and eBusiness team, I was presented with the opportunity to attend the Strong-Tie Undergraduate Fellowship student trip. The main role I played during my time there was acting as a trip photographer, but the most impactful part for me was being given the chance to connect with such incredible individuals.
As a communication major at UCSB, I was initially quite intimidated to enter this industry. The unfamiliarity of product development, engineering, construction management and architecture was a challenge for me at first since I’d never felt passionate about these subjects before interning with the company. However, this trip reinforced something I already knew, which is that connecting with people has always been my passion.
Getting to wake up every morning to spend time and develop relationships with over fifty people that I didn’t know before the first day of the trip felt effortless and exciting, as I was surrounded by more than fifty curious, kind, intelligent and extremely open-minded individuals. Anytime I had a question about anything, the students and my team were all so quick to jump in and give me any explanation they could. Getting to know a group whose passions extended beyond my academic studies made me want to learn more as a student and embrace new experiences as a person.
Another part of the trip that was rewarding to me was getting to meet a lot of my team members in person for the first time. I will never forget walking into the hotel and being greeted with such excitement by Angel Leon and Rachel Holland, fellow teammates that I had only worked with and talked to remotely, but who made me feel I could seamlessly integrate into the trip.
This fellowship field trip taught me a lot of things about Simpson Strong-Tie, about the construction industry and about myself, but what made it feel so special was being surrounded by a group of people who lifted each other up, taught each other new things and wanted to become friends along the way.
