Women in Construction hosted a Craft Night event Wednesday, Feb. 4, at the Crossland Technology Center, bringing students together for an evening focused on creativity, conversation and connection.
The event was organized to give students an opportunity to participate in an activity outside of the classroom, according to Erin Jordan, an assistant professor in the School of Construction at Pittsburg State University and the advisor for the Women in Construction club.
Jordan said the goal of the evening was to provide a relaxed space where students could try something new and enjoy time together.
“Get creative and learn something new,” Jordan said. “Relax and have fun.”
About five students attended the event. The activity for the night included crocheting, and Jordan said students were introduced to the basics during the session.
“I taught them how to crochet,” Jordan said.
Jordan said the event was designed not only as a craft activity, but also as a way for students in construction-related programs to build relationships outside of academic requirements.
“Events like this strengthen the bonds between the students that attend,” Jordan said.
She said student organizations play an important role in creating community, especially in programs that can be demanding and time-intensive.
“It helps create a safer environment for them outside of the meetings by having colleagues they have connected with beyond the classroom and its requirements,” Jordan said.
Jordan said informal events such as Craft Night allow students to connect in ways that are different from structured classroom settings or professional meetings. She said these experiences help students feel more comfortable with one another and encourage continued involvement in the organization.
“These friendships will stay with them throughout their career,” Jordan said, adding that, “The construction industry is a small world.”
Jordan said building connections early can benefit students as they move into internships, job placements and long-term professional work.
She also said events outside of regular meetings give students additional opportunities to practice balancing responsibilities beyond coursework.
“It also lets them practice extra curriculars and time management,” Jordan said.
Women in Construction plans to continue hosting events for students throughout the semester. Jordan said future activities will continue to focus on bringing students together through shared experiences.
“You never know what we’ll be up to,” Jordan said, “but it will involve food and good conversations.”
Jordan said events like Craft Night reflect the organization’s efforts to support students both socially and professionally by creating spaces where they can meet peers, share interests and strengthen connections.
“Events like this strengthen the bonds between the students that attend,” she said.
The Craft Night event was held at the Crossland Technology Center, which hosts a range of student-centered programs and organizations connected to technical and professional fields.
Jordan said Women in Construction encourages students to participate in upcoming events and stay involved with the organization as it continues to offer opportunities for connection outside of academics.
“Relax and have fun,” Jordan said. “Get creative and learn something new.”