CIM Graduate
Elvis Torres
School: New Jersey Institute of Technology
Graduation Date: Spring 2013
Employer: Sika Corporation
“The CIM program has shown me the way corporations in the concrete industry operate. The program provides knowledge about the work place and what to expect out in the field.”
What school did you graduate from and in which year?
I graduated from New Jersey Institute of Technology in the spring of 2013.
What is your current position and responsibilities?
I am a Technical Service Specialist for Sika Corporation at our U.S. North American headquarters in Lyndhurst, New Jersey. In my position, I am responsible for assisting the commercial refurbishment/sealing and bonding division with requests for information. I perform tests on our products to ensure they meet specifications listed on material safety data sheets. Testing is done on concept products that may be hitting the market and product samples are made to show customers how the product is placed and how it will look. In technical services, we also provide assistance to contractors, architects, engineers, and homeowners who have questions about our products.
Why did you choose this position and this company?
I first came to Sika Corporation on a class trip. We were shown a presentation on the different types of admixtures. While there, I liked the atmosphere and the location because it was a short drive from NJIT. Later, I researched Sika and was impressed with the history of this 100-year-old business. I looked into an internship opportunity and was fortunate that one was open in the technical service department.
How has the CIM program prepared you for your current job responsibilities?
The CIM program has shown me the way corporations in the concrete industry operate. The program provides knowledge about the work place and what to expect out in the field.
What advice would you give to current CIM students?
Give it your best. I was a resident assistant at NJIT for three years, had an internship for two years, and always had a full load of classes. It can be done. Get the experience with companies that are involved with CIM. They are looking for motivated young individuals which is what the CIM program is producing!