Omarion LaBordeaux, a senior at the University of Central Florida (UCF), has been named one of the recipients of the Wayne D. Chalifoux Scholarship. The scholarship fund, an established endowment coordinated with UCF's College of Engineering and Computer Science, honors former DRMP President Wayne Chalifoux's commitment to mentoring the next generation of civil engineers. LaBordeaux’s passion for building has guided his journey, from childhood playing with Legos and Roblox to a commitment to improving Florida’s roadways
“I’ve always loved building things,” said LaBordeaux, a civil engineering major. “As a kid, I was fascinated with bridges. This past summer in Jacksonville, Florida, I even made a special trip to see The Dames Point Bridge to take it in.”
LaBordeaux’s passion for construction grew as he experienced driving Florida’s roadways himself.
“When I got to college, I developed an interest in highways and roadways,” he said. “Florida has so many, and I want to play a part in making our roads better.”
He also wants to learn more about surveying after taking a Civil Engineering Measurements course.
LaBordeaux had an opportunity to meet with DRMP CEO Larry Smith, Jr., PE; DRMP President Glenn Lusink, PSM; and Amanda Woods, PE, Senior Vice President and DRMP Transportation Director at a recent luncheon at DRMP’s headquarters in Orlando. During the luncheon, he shared what he’s learned so far about the industry and gained valuable insight into various disciplines, including transportation engineering and surveying.
LaBordeaux is gaining valuable hands-on experience during his internship at an electric contracting firm in Orlando, where he works on modeling for the construction of buildings.
“I’m like a sponge,” he added. “I love learning and want to absorb everything I can about civil engineering, whether it's in the classroom or on the job.”
Another deserving UCF student, who will be announced soon, has also been selected for the scholarship.
The Wayne D. Chalifoux Scholarship, established through the generosity of DRMP employees, honors former DRMP President Wayne Chalifoux, PE. With more than 35 years of mentorship and leadership in the A/E/C industry, Chalifoux left a lasting impact, and this scholarship continues his legacy of investing in the education of future engineers like Omarion. Recipients must be students of UCF’s Civil, Environmental, and Construction Engineering program, demonstrating a strong passion for the industry and a desire to contribute to the field.
