What an amazing honor it has been to navigate the course with all of you this year. You have been an extraordinary class. Thank you so much for engaging with me and your fellow classmates to make the learning experience better for everyone.
For those of you who entered the course with the knowledge and experience base that could have had you in front of the room most sessions, thank you for your humility and the way in which you freely shared that knowledge and experience with the rest of us. I hope you were validated and strengthened in your practices.
To the 2025 Graduation Class of the AGC Project Management Certificate Program:
For those who entered the course with limited knowledge of the industry and the roles within thank you for being transparent and allowing the entire group to help grow your knowledge base. I hope the journey was beneficial and encouraging.
all of you work throughout our vast industry, will be my great pleasure to watch from afar with pride and say “There’s another AGCSD PM grad”. Thank you for an extraordinary year. Make sure to stay in touch and let me buy you lunch some time.
Paul Stout Facilitator / Instructor
What an amazing honor it has been to navigate the course with all of you this year. You have been an extraordinary class. Thank you so much for engaging with me and your fellow classmates to make the learning experience better for everyone.
For those of you who entered the course with the knowledge and experience base that could have had you in front of the room most sessions, thank you for your humility and the way in which you freely shared that knowledge and experience with the rest of us. I hope you were validated and strengthened in your practices.
For those who entered the course with limited knowledge of the industry and the roles within it, thank you for being transparent and allowing the entire group to help grow your knowledge base. I hope the journey was beneficial and encouraging.
As all of you work throughout our vast industry, it will be my great pleasure to watch from afar with pride and say “There’s another AGCSD PM grad”. Thank you for an extraordinary year. Make sure to stay in touch and let me buy you lunch some time.
Paul Stout Facilitator / Instructor
ALBERTO BLANCHET
Assistant Estimator | Nielsen Construction California Inc.
Years in the construction industry: 10 years of field experience, 10 months as an assistant estimator
Fun Fact: One unexpected hobby that I have is that I treat any Lego set as a real project.
Program Testimonial: All of the sessions have been a learning experience. I especially appreciate how we start each class with “How in the world did that happen?”—a moment when classmates share stories about big or small mistakes in the construction industry. Learning from others’ mistakes is a huge advantage, particularly in this field, where a single error can lead to losses of millions of dollars.
ANDRE GRAF
Chief Executive Officer | In-Line Fence & Rail Co.
Years in the construction industry: 9
Fun Fact: Most people know me by my middle name, “Andre,” as my first name, “Gaudenz,” is difficult for many to pronounce.
Program Testimonial: This class has been very valuable to me, as I was already working as a Project Manager and was able to immediately apply many of the lessons to my day-to-day work with various general contractors. One example involved a large change order that had been taking a significant amount of time to resolve. After discussing the situation with Paul, the class instructor, I gained a clearer and more effective approach. The following day, I was able to successfully resolve the issue with the general contractor. This outcome was particularly impactful, as it involved a change order that had previously been challenging and avoided within my company.
ANNA POP
Project Engineer | T.B. Penick & Sons, Inc. — ICS Division
Years in the Construction Industry: 10
Hobby: Spotting bad joint layouts in public spaces. It’s a blessing and a curse. Fun Fact: I made the mistake of naming my dogs Branch Managers, and now they’re convinced they run the place.
Program Testimonial:This program gave me new insight into what it means to lead effectively and manage projects from a broader perspective. It challenged me to think beyond day-to-day tasks and focus on communication, teamwork, and the bigger picture. I’m walking away with more confidence, stronger tools, and genuine excitement to take on the responsibilities of a Project Manager role.
BRONSEN CHIARAMONTE
Operations Associate | A. M Ortega Construction Years in the Construction Industry: 3
Hobby: I race a class 10 car in the desert as well as speed auto with Robby Gordon
Fun Fact: I am an instrument-rated pilot
Program Testimonial: This class is very fun and engaging. Paul does a wonderful job at bringing real world experiences to the class. Each class bring great knowledge. I would recommend this class to students to want to learn about construction and project managament .
CAMERON MOORE
Project Manager | Orion Construction Years in the Construction Industry: 6
Hobby: I am a complete coffee snob who roasts his own beans and would not dare to drink from the office coffee corral.
Fun Fact: I consider myself an amateur fixer from old surfboards to minor autobody and miscellaneous household repairs directed by my real boss: my spouse.
Program Testimonial: My biggest take away from the AGC Construction Project Management Class is that although there is no “secret sauce” to becoming a great project manager; there is a general theme of what people do in the industry to become influential and successful. It has been a treat to not only learn from the man, the myth, the legend: Paul Stout, but also other local industry leaders, and fellow peers in the same position as myself. Hearing about all the struggles, hardships, trials and tribulations, and ups and downs has been impactful to the way I look back at my experiences in construction and the outlook on my future as a Project Manager. There is solace and strength in sharing the inevitable hardships of long days, early starts, and plethora of concurrent urgent project tasks; knowing that no one performs perfectly all the time and that we are not alone in facing these challenges. Our industry appears to award those who work hard, take responsibility for their actions, ask questions, speak up, always seek to improve, and perhaps most importantly get back up after getting knocked down.
CODY L. DEL ROSARIO
Project Manager | FILANC
Years in the Construction Industry: 2
Hobby: Whenever I walk into a building, I am analyzing all the systems and mentally drawing out floor plans.
Fun Fact: Used to be a merchant mariner (engineering)
Program Testimonial: The Project Management AGC course has reinforced the foundations taught to as a project engineer, but as a project manager has given the confidence on how to address project obstacles/constraints. Mr. Stout is has given me a great foundation on how to approach challenges, collaborate/ coordinate with trade partners, and how important the legalese of a contract is. All these skills are what can make a good project manager great. Mr. Stout’s wise words and humor made the drive down to San Diego for Los Angeles worth it. I am happy I took this course, and will keep making strides to acquire my CCM.
HARRISON BARTLETT
Project Manager | Barnhart-Reese Construction
Years in the Construction Industry: 6
Fun Fact: I got first place in my Cub Scout Pack’s Pinewood Derby (I keep the trophy in my jobsite trailer).
Program Testimonial: The AGC San Diego and Paul Stout host a great gathering place to discuss and learn construction industry specific and a standardized approach to project management. We learn from Paul and each other. I wish that I had taken this class years ago!
ISAAC CARRENO
Takeoff/Project Engineer| Hazard Construction Years in the Construction Industry: 3
Hobby: I like going snorkeling with my coworkers in La Jolla.
Program Testimonial: Coming out of college and still being relatively new to the construction industry, the Project Management class was a huge help in preparing me to manage projects effectively. From scheduling activities to sending professional emails and reading contracts, I now have a stronger understanding of what it takes to be successful in this field. My biggest takeaway is that no project succeeds without teamwork — having the right people around you and managing them well makes all the difference. Moving forward, I hope to take full responsibility for my own projects as a Project Engineer and eventually decide whether I want to continue down the Project Management path or explore the Superintendent route. What I’ve learned in this class will help me in either direction.
ISSAC STERN
Assistant Project Manager | Elite Earthworks and Engineering Years in the Construction Industry: 10
Program Testimonial: This program has been a great platform to build my work processes and confidence off of. I came from a very limited construction background, and now I work for a company doing mainly grading so I have not been able to experience many aspects of our industry. This class has helped shed some light on things I would not have thought about previously, and has given me the frame of reference to ask better questions of my team and myself. I would recommend this course for anyone interested in project management or just needing to fresh perspective on our industry.
JAKE COKER
Project Analyst | Cameron Brothers Company, LLC Years in the Construction Industry: 5.5
Program Testimonial: The Project Management course was a very enriching experience. The curriculum was comprehensive and wellstructured, and the materials equipped me with the essential skills for effective project oversight. Paul is a great instructor and has a wealth of practical knowledge drawn from his extensive professional background. His guidance enhanced my understanding of core principles and also inspired my confidence in applying these principles to real-world scenarios. The lectures and resources were packed with industry-specific examples and insights shared by guest speakers with decades of hands-on experience. Overall, the course helped me gain in-depth knowledge across key areas in the field and the office and, more importantly, taught me key concepts in sustainable construction practices and how these elements integrate to drive successful outcomes. I highly recommend this source to anyone seeking to elevate their expertise.
JASON CHAVEZ
Purchasing Manager | TC Construction Years in the construction industry: 25
Program Testimonial: Program has been great. Paul is an amazing teacher. Learned how and what it takes to be a successful project manager. I am hoping to take all these skills and put them to use in the near future.
JESSICA SERRANO
Project Coordinator | Sherwood Mechanical Inc.
Years in the construction industry: 6
Hobby: My unexpected hobby is creating travel itineraries. I love creating experiences people remember.
Fun Fact: I love to dance.
Program Testimonial: My experience in the Project Management program has been transformative. I gained a deeper understanding of construction processes, project coordination, and communication. My biggest takeaway is the importance of leadership, organization, and adapting quickly in a fast paced environment. I hope to use these skills to grow into higher-level Project Management roles and continue advancing in my career.
JOEY FENICK
Project Engineer | FILANC
Years in the construction industry: 3
Hobby: I like to spend time outdoors by exploring new hiking trails, surfing, and camping on the beach whenever possible.
Fun Fact: I enjoy watching live music and have been to over 200 concerts.
Program Testimonial The project management course was a great learning experience that taught the importance of teamwork, clear communication, and strong documentation. My biggest takeaway was how collaboration and professionalism are key to keeping projects on schedule and running smoothly. Moving forward, I plan to apply these skills to take on stronger leadership roles and drive projects with greater efficiency and success.
JONATHAN RODRIGUEZ
Project Engineer | AIS Infrastructure
Years in the construction industry: 9
Hobby: Using unique items for an everyday use, for example “A mini plastic bucket the size of my palm, being used as an office coffee cup”.
Fun Fact: I always use methods learned from onsite construction at home.
Program Testimonial: My experience from the Construction Project Management Program has been fulfilling of knowledge to my day to day activities confronted in the workplace. All topics covered by the program, have assisted in making a clear sense of understanding when it is encountered on construction projects. A takeaway from this program is the different thoughts of mind from the group in class on how they have overcome similar situations as to one in construction. A second takeway is Paul’s excellent way of explaining all methods that will be encountered on a daily basis as a full project manager on a condtruction project. I hope to take woth me all the experiences heard and knowledge developed with me in my future career as a Project Manager.
JOHN BIFONE
Project Engineer | Barnhart-Reese Construction Years in the construction industry: 1
Fun Fact: I started my career as a structural engineer.
Program Testimonial: I had a really great experience in this class. As a general contractor, getting to peek into the perspective of a subcontractor was eye opening. I feel like I learned a lot about how to communicate with other project managers and to listen to what they say while also getting my points across. Paul did a wonderful job giving us all of the information and the opportunity to practice what we learned. I hope to make the move to project manager in the future and to bring what I learned in this class into the workplace.
LEZ CEJREEN CJ SCOTT
Project Engineer | FILANC
LIZZIE FANSLOW
Assistant Project Manager/Project Engineer | EC Constructors Years in the construction industry: 3
Hobby: My favorite hobby right now is rock climbing and I grew up in Chicago.
Program Testimonial: After completing this course with Paul Stout, I can confidently say it was a valuable learning and professional development experience. The course was well structured and covered all the essential topics a successful Project Manager needs to understand. Paul encouraged class participation, allowing us to learn not only from the material but also from the industry experience of our classmates. I’m leaving this course with new skills and practical knowledge that are directly applicable to my job.
LUIS PROVINCIA
Assistant Project Manager | ETC Building & Design Inc.
Years in the construction industry: 13
Hobby: I make my own homemade Kombucha and like to experiment with different flavors.
Fun Fact: I consider myself a chicken wing connoisseur. Haha!
Program Testimonial: I want to thank the AGC and Paul Stout for the wonderful classes, these were lively and engaging and sometimes entertaining too. I learned the principles of becoming a “full charge” Project Manager which I have begun to implement in my workflow and hope to someday master. I was reminded that we will never stop learning as our industry is ever evolving and that we need to be ready for change at any given moment in order to keep up with the times. I hope to continue to grow in my capacity as a PM but also as a mentor to newer ones joining the field of construction. Thanks again, I hope to see you at the next party!
MARCELA RIVAS ESPINOZA
Project Engineer / Artichect | Currently Seeking Opportunities
Years in the construction industry: 7
Fun Fact: I am passionate about photography, which inspires me to see design and spaces in new ways. By the way, follow me on Instagram granada_visions
Program Testimonial: The Project Management program strengthened my understanding of construction management principles, project coordination, and execution support. Open to Opportunities, Backed by AGC Training, Ready for the Next Build. I am an architect with knowledge in project management and construction processes. During this certification, I gained valuable understanding of coordination processes and construction management, which strengthened my professional skills.
I am also proud of the projects I contributed to, including school projects for San Diego Unifier and the East Village Downtown Park, where I was able to apply my knowledge and grow as a professional.
MICHAEL CASTELLINI
Project Manager / Estimator | Baker Electric Years in the construction industry: 12
Fun Fact: We raise chickens with our children, our favorites are Silkies (look them up).
Program Testimonial: I have very much enjoyed the experience of the project management course. Its great to see other individuals collaborating and coming together to learn fundamentals about interacting and communicating with each other in class and out in the field. Paul has a wealth of information and experience to aid in helping people of all levels. I think the biggest takeaway for me is that there are many ways to be an effective PM, communications is key and there are different roles for a PM based on the company. And no matter where you are, learning the systems that are in place or creating new ones is an essential factor that needs buy-in from everyone in the company. I hope to use knowledge learned here to enhance my skill set and be an asset to the construction community.
MIKAEL PEREZ
In-Line Fence & Rail Co.
NAVID NASIRPOUR
Project Engineer | Hazard Construction Years in the construction industry: 10
Hobby: Testing drone flight paths over freshly paved asphalt. I call it “aerial smoothness quality control”.
Fun Fact: I can tell the type of asphalt mix just by the sound of a paver.
Program Testimonial: The AGC Project Management program has been an invaluable experience that strengthened both my technical knowledge and leadership approach. It gave me new tools for managing complex projects more efficiently, improving team coordination, and tackling challenges with a broader perspective. My biggest takeaway is that effective project management is about continuous learning and communication. it’s what keeps projects and people moving forward together. I’m looking forward to applying these lessons to deliver more successful projects and contribute to building stronger, more collaborative teams in the industry.
OSCAR COYOMATZI
Owner | OCM Flooring
Years in the Construction Industry: 11
Hobby: Going offroading and going to Dodger games
Fun Fact: I started as a drywall taper
Favorite Job Site: Amazon Campus Point
Program Testimonial: I really enjoyed the program. Everyone in the program has a different role in their company so you get to learn from them. Each company is a General or a Sub so you get a different perspective when it comes to project management. Coming from the flooring industry I had no experience on how to manage an entire project. I’ve learned about the bidding process, managing any tyoe of risk, and making sure you get invited to the next project. From this program I hope to become a successful project manager,
RODERICK REID
Purchasing Manager | South Bay Welding Years in the construction industry: 9
Hobby: When I am not on the jobsite you can find me teaching yoga. Fun Fact: In Highschool I competed in US Nationals for Rubik’s cube speed solving.
Program Testimonial: Paul has provided invaluable real world experience and insight into the construction industry. Even from a subcontractor perspective this class has been incredibly helpful. Paul, and his curriculum, have been engaging and practical throughout this course.
SAMANTHA SMILEY
Purchasing Assistant | Cass Arrieta
Years in the construction industry: 4
Hobby: Autocross/Racing Photography
Fun Fact: I enjoy baking and then sharing with my coworkers.
Program Testimonial: From taking this class, I have gained knowledge in many areas of Project Management as well as the construction industry. In particular, the importance of reading all the fine print in documents before agreeing to the terms/conditions and signing official documents. I have a better understanding that anything can go wrong on a job/jobsite and that actively knowing what is happening on our job/jobsite can help prevent small problems from becoming larger issues. There are a few different takeaways I have from taking this class. First, documentation is extremely important from the bidding process to job completion. I understand the importance of having clear and open communication with anyone associated with our job/job site. As I complete this class, I can confidently close this chapter, knowing that I have gained valuable lessons, knowledge, and skills in the Project Management area of the construction industry. I plan to move forward with the opportunities that await in Project Management in this ever-growing construction industry.
SHEREIF HIJJAWI
Project Engineer | FILANC
Years in the construction industry: 10
Hobby: My life revolves around my wife’s pets.
Fun Fact: I have never broken a bone in my body.
Program Testimonial: The program covers all topics needed to elevate one’s professional project managements knowledge, skills, and experience. In our daily professional lives we typically come across many scenarios, conflicts, and day-to-day activities that are often taken for granted. With Paul’s skillful guidance, his program gives young professionals the chance to tap into their real world experience and apply it in a manner that allows them to push the limits of their understanding of project management to new heights. Thank you to Paul and AGC for putting us in a position to become Full-Charge Project Managers!
STEPHEN TORRES
Estimator| | In-Line Fence & Rail Co.
ZACH STINSON
Project Engineer | FILANC
Years in the construction industry: 5
Hobby: Duck and deer hunting. Fun Fact: I hate ketchup.
Program Testimonial: This class helped me get organized, the binder provided is a great tool to store information about each project management step I need to focus on when I get my own project. I enjoyed how classmates worked for different companies and projects that gave a new perspective on certain topic points throughout the class.
