Seth Voigt is the embodiment of leadership, dedication and perseverance.
During his four years in the U.S. Marine Corps, Voigt led initiatives under the “Force Design 2030” strategy, including overseeing the Tactical Air Ground Refueling System and mentoring junior marines.
CELEBRATING SUCCESS: UToledo recognizes the Class of 2025 with a series of stories featuring students receiving their degrees at spring commencement.
Still, the idea of pursuing a degree in construction engineering technology was rather daunting as the first major chapter in his post-military life.
“I would be lying if I said I wasn’t initially worried about the prospect of going to college after a four-year gap in formal education,” Voight said. “The Military Service Center made this transition seamless and helped me fully understand the benefits available to me.”
His work ethic and willingness to take charge also served him well as a Rocket.
As president of The University of Toledo’s American Concrete Institute (ACI) Student Chapter, Voight revitalized the organization, expanded industry engagement and led the team to earn the prestigious first place Judges Award at the international ACI Convention in the Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Bowling Ball Competition against more than 80 universities.
“I have developed a highly positive opinion of Seth’s character, work ethic and academic abilities,” said Dr. Luis Mata, an associate professor and director of the Construction Engineering Technology Program, whom Voight credits for introducing him to ACI and for helping grow his construction knowledge.
“His strong motivation and relentless pursuit of improvement set him apart as a driven and committed individual.”
Seth Voigt, a former U.S. Marine who will earn his bachelor’s degree in construction engineering technology on Saturday, has accepted a full-time project manager role with The Gerken Companies.
Voigt said that co-op experiences with Kuhlman Corp. and The Gerken Companies helped him apply classroom concepts to major projects like the First Solar 2.1 million ft² manufacturing facility and the I-75 DiSalle Bridge reconstruction.
“These co-ops allowed me to see real-world applications of concepts that I have studied,” he said. “The duties I performed at my co-ops reflected concepts I learned through my time in the CET Program. I couldn’t ask for a better experience than what I had at both of these companies.”
Following graduation, Voigt said he has accepted a full-time project manager role with The Gerken Companies, with primary project management responsibilities in Wood County and the potential for projects in other areas.
UToledo has always been part of Voigt’s life. His brother graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering in 2018 and his sister graduated from the College of Nursing last year.
“I remember having season tickets to football games for years when I was a kid,” he said. “… I always knew if I went to college, it would be here.
“My experience at UToledo has given me much more than just a degree,” he added. “It has assured me that I can accomplish anything I put my mind to.”
