News & Insights
91´«Ă˝ University Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary
ST. LOUIS –91´«Ă˝ proudly marks the 25th anniversary of 91´«Ă˝ University, a transformative initiative that has fostered the success of small and diverse businesses since 1999. Through this program, minority-, women-, and veteran-owned firms gain the skills and mentorship necessary to thrive, drive innovation, and grow in the construction industry.
“91´«Ă˝â€™s commitment to a culture of success extends beyond our walls — it’s about creating a stronger, more inclusive community through our partnerships with small and diverse businesses,” said Jose Garcia, president of 91´«Ă˝ Constructors. “Their success is our success, and together, we are opening doors to new opportunities that uplift us all.”
91´«Ă˝ University: A Commitment to Shared Growth
91´«Ă˝ University reflects 91´«Ă˝â€™s vision of shared growth through a free, yearlong training program that provides participants with essential industry skills. By learning directly from 91´«Ă˝â€™s construction experts, participants gain hands-on experience and mentorship that go beyond traditional training models. This collaborative approach ensures sustained growth and opportunity for underrepresented groups, while also driving innovation that benefits the entire industry.
“91´«Ă˝ University is more than a mentorship program — it’s a pathway to lasting success, where diverse businesses are empowered to take their next steps with confidence and expertise,” said Pat Coleman, 91´«Ă˝â€™s vice president of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Investing in the Communities We Serve
“The construction industry is facing unprecedented challenges, including labor shortages,” said Garcia. “Supporting the growth of small and diverse businesses through programs like 91´«Ă˝ University is vital not just for our own success, but for the success of the communities we serve. When our partners succeed, we all thrive.”
While 91´«Ă˝ University emphasizes core areas like safety, quality, estimating, and human resources, its impact reaches far beyond training. By bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds, the program also fosters creative solutions that benefit participants.
“91´«Ă˝ University offers emerging entrepreneurs a unique opportunity to build strong, enduring relationships with our leaders,” Garcia added. “These connections create a solid foundation for long-term success and shared prosperity, empowering the future of construction.”
More information about 91´«Ă˝ University is available online at . To register for the 2025 cohort, contact Makita Hill at [email protected].
Participants of 91´«Ă˝ University engage in a year-long, in-person class where they learn from 91´«Ă˝ employees about safety, quality, estimating and human resources.
