Celebrating Careers in Construction Month by highlighting one of our BYF Scholarship Recipients
For Austin Ziringer of Hilliard, Ohio, a career in construction and engineering began long before he knew exactly where that path would lead.
As a child, Austin’s backyard was his first construction site. Lincoln Logs, building blocks, and toy bulldozers, excavators, and cement mixers provided hours of entertainment as he built structures, roads, and bridges. What started as childhood fun eventually became something more – a curiosity about how real buildings are designed and what makes them strong enough to stand for decades.
That curiosity led Austin to pursue pre-engineering, with a focus on structural engineering and architecture. A former member of the Tolles Career and Technical Center NTHS chapter, Austin is now continuing his education at Columbus State Community College.
For Austin, structural engineering is a natural fit for his technical mindset and love of problem-solving. He is fascinated by the “backbone” of a building – the beams, studs, supports, and structural systems that work together to safely carry loads and withstand forces.
His interest in architecture complements that focus, giving him an appreciation for how design and structure must work together.
“Structural engineering allows me to focus on the backbone of a building, designing systems that safely support loads, resist forces, and stay structurally sound for decades.”
Austin understands that a career in construction and engineering comes with significant responsibility. Attention to detail and careful planning are essential, because even a small mistake can have consequences later. For him, that responsibility is especially meaningful because the safety of others depends on the buildings and structures professionals design and construct.
Safety is at the heart of the impact Austin hopes to make.
He wants to design and construct buildings that are safe, reliable, and built to last. Structures that people and communities can depend on for generations. But his commitment to his community extends beyond his future career.
Austin volunteers with Habitat for Humanity, where he has helped remodel homes for families in need. Through that experience, he has seen firsthand how construction can do more than create buildings, it can improve lives.
As we celebrate Careers in Construction Month, Austin’s story is a great example of how curiosity, technical skills, and a desire to serve others can come together to create a meaningful career. From building with Lincoln Logs as a child to studying the structural systems behind real buildings, Austin is laying the foundation for a future focused on safety, reliability, and community.
The National Technical Honor Society is proud to support students like Austin as they pursue their education and prepare for careers that will help build the future.
Interested in Building Your Future?
NTHS members can access the Build Your Future (BYF) Scholarship through their NTHS membership portal. Applications are currently being accepted through April 1.
If you’re an NTHS member pursuing your education and career goals in a construction related field, we encourage you to explore this scholarship opportunity and take the next step toward building your future.
