EXPLORE

CONSTRUCTION + DESIGN • NYC

January 4-7, 2026

BUILD YOUR FUTURE FROM THE GROUND UP

This immersive experience connects undergraduate brothers with industry professionals in engineering, architecture, and construction management, all set against the backdrop of New York City’s iconic skyline. Whether you’re designing structures, managing builds, or engineering solutions, this program will help you lay the foundation for your future career.

Explore is presented by the Nelson Leadership Institute.

Who Should Attend

Undergraduate brothers interested in engineering, architecture, construction management, or related fields who want hands-on exposure to real-world projects and industry professionals.

What to Expect

Firm visits, alumni panels, guided tours of active construction sites, and networking opportunities — all set in New York City’s iconic skyline.

What You'll Learn

Gain insight into how major projects come to life, explore career paths in design and construction, and learn from alumni and industry leaders about the skills and experiences that drive success.

FEATURED COMPANY

TURNER CONSTRUCTION

As one of the largest construction management companies in the United States, Turner has built some of the most iconic structures in New York City and around the world. Known for its innovation, sustainability leadership, and large-scale projects, like Madison Square Garden and Yankee Stadium, Turner shapes skylines while setting new standards for the construction industry.

Learn more about Turner Construction >>

ALUMNI HOSTS

ZARCHARY LANDTROOP

Lafayette '12 | Project Manager at Turner Construction

During is 10 year career at Turner Construction, Zachary Landtroop Lafayette ’12 has supported high profile developments, such as the One Times Square Renovation Project, the Javits Convention Center Expansion, and the NYU Kimmel Pavilion, by managing both financial operations and onsite project execution. Zachary holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Lafayette College.

STEPHEN BEAVAN

Lafayette '08 | Project manager at VHB
In his current role, Stephen Beavan Lafayette ’08 leads complex land development and infrastructure projects for VHB. He previously served as a Project Manager at MFS Engineers & Surveyors and as an Assistant Project Manager at Bohler, gaining extensive experience in site development, permitting, and civil engineering design across residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional sectors. Stephen earned his B.S. in Civil Engineering from Lafayette College.

ARMEN MKHITARIAN

Lafayette '12 | Executive Vice President of Imperial Fire Protection Systems
Armen Mkhitarian Lafayette ’13 has helped lead Imperial Fire Protection’s growth and operations since 2017. He began his career as an engineer with Jaros, Baum & Bolles before moving into executive leadership. In addition to his professional work, Armen serves as Treasurer of The Union of Marash Armenians Student Fund, supporting educational opportunities for students in need. Armen received his BS in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Lafayette College in 2016, and his MBA from the Fordham Gabelli School of Business in 2025.

SCHEDULE

Schedule is tentative and subject to change.

Arrival + Welcome
  • Morning + Afternoon – Arrive to NYC; Check into hotel
  • Evening – Welcome Dinner at St. Pat’s Bar & Grill
    • Kick off the week with good food and great company. Enjoy time with your brothers and get ready for an unforgettable New York experience.

Industry Overview
  • Morning – Career Readiness Workshops
    • Level up your professional game with sessions on resumes, LinkedIn, interviewing, and networking. Build confidence and polish skills that set you apart.
  • Afternoon – Industry Overview
    • A “day-in-the-life” deep dive into one of NYC’s most powerful industries.
  • Evening – Activity: Hockey Game @ Madison Square Garden
    • Utah vs. Rangers — brotherhood, competition, and the thrill of New York hockey all in one night.

Industry Immersion
  • Morning + Afternoon – Site Visit / Breakout Tracks
    • Go behind the scenes on a live NYC project site and discover how these buildings rise, guided by Turner Construction, followed by Construction & Design breakout tracks that will allow you hands on learning opportunities to sharpen your professional skills.
  • Evening – Alumni Networking Dinner
    • Build your network where it matters most—over dinner with Phi Psi alumni who are making their mark in finance, construction, and beyond.

Explore + Wrap-Up
  • Morning – NYC Immersion
    • Explore the city that shapes industries and inspires leaders.
  • Afternoon + Evening – Travel Home

READY TO BUILD YOUR FUTURE?

Explore will connect you with industry professionals, alumni, and hands-on experiences that show how major projects come to life. Start laying the groundwork for your career today. Spots are limited, so don’t wait to apply.

Deadline to apply is October 6, 2025.

WHAT BROTHERS SAID ABOUT EXPLORE

“These three days benefited my professional career more than the last 2.5 years in college. The hands-on experience, talking to people who want to see us succeed, and the connections made are irreplaceable.”
Past Explore Participant
“Networking is one of the most important components of business that assists young professionals in early growth and success, and building that network with the alumni involved will continually assist in our future opportunities.”
Past Explore Participant

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

All undergraduates interested in engineering, architecture, construction management, or related fields are encouraged to apply.

Note: Previous Explore attendees are ineligible to apply.

Absolutely not! All Explore programs (no matter the career sector) are open to all undergraduates, regardless of what you’re studying.

The program runs from January 4-7, 2026. Applications are open from September 6 through October 6, 2025.

There is no cost to apply for all Explore programs! Thanks to the Nelson Leadership Institute, travel, food, lodging, program costs, and instruction are all included. You’ll only need to pay a $250 registration fee after your application is accepted.

We know cost can be a factor. Financial assistance may be available!

Please complete the application on the Foundation Portal. Applications must be submitted by October 6 to be considered for this program.