NDSU construction management alumna helps bring new engineering complex to life

As construction nears completion on most of NDSU's Richard Offerdahl '65 Engineering Complex, one member of the project team is helping build more than a new facility. Lexie Grandalen, a 2017 construction management alum who now is the superintendent of McGough Construction, has the opportunity to shape the future home of the college that helped launch her career.

“Earning my degree in construction management from NDSU and now being actively involved in the construction of the very buildings where I once attended classes has been a true full-circle moment in my career,” Grandalen said. “Being able to contribute to a project that will impact and support future generations of young construction professionals is especially rewarding, and it aligns with McGough’s motto of building for the next generation.”

The state-of-the-art engineering complex, which will open in August, is designed to elevate the student experience through spaces that emphasize teamwork, communication and interdisciplinary learning. The complex has been under construction since 2024, when NDSU electrical engineering alum Richard Offerdahl and his wife, Linda, made a historic $25 million gift. A grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 2, during Homecoming week.

Grandalen has been part of the project since October of 2025. As the superintendent for McGough Construction, Grandalen wears many hats in her role. She oversees every stage of commercial construction projects, from preconstruction planning through completion. Her responsibilities include leading field operations, coordinating with project management, ensuring safety compliance and keeping projects on track.

“Arguably though, the most important part of my role on site is to build and maintain strong relationships with clients, design teams, consultants and subcontractors while providing mentorship and leadership to field staff in support of long-term client partnerships and company growth,” Grandalen said.

While every project presents new challenges, Grandalen says seeing a building come to life is one of the most rewarding parts of her work.

“Seeing a project evolve from initial planning through completion and knowing I played a key role in its successful execution is the most rewarding part of my work,” she said. “Equally rewarding is mentoring the next generation of construction professionals. I enjoy coaching and developing younger team members, helping them build confidence, expand their technical and leadership skills and grow throughout their careers. Watching them take on greater responsibilities and succeed is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my role as well.”

From mentee to mentor

Grandalen’s passion for mentoring stems from the professors who mentored her during her time as a student. While NDSU was always her top choice for college, it took a little time to determine her major. Having always enjoyed working with people and solving complex problems, Grandalen followed in her brother's footsteps and enrolled in the construction management program.

“After taking my first few introductory courses, I quickly realized I had found the right fit,” she said. “The combination of leadership, teamwork, technical problem-solving and seeing a project come to life confirmed that construction management was the career I wanted to pursue, and I've never looked back.”

NDSU's construction management program combines coursework in management, business, engineering principles and construction technologies with hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for the workforce. In addition to the comprehensive coursework, construction management students gain real-world experience outside of the classroom through innovative hands-on projects.

Grandalen recalls a semester-long group project that focused on developing a piece of undeveloped land on the edge of Fargo into a residential neighborhood. Upon the completion of the project, Grandalen had learned all about developing a project schedule, preparing a cost estimate and creating a mock Request for Proposal (RFP) as if her group were presenting the project to a client.

“That project has always stood out to me because it closely mirrored the work I do today. It required collaboration, communication, critical thinking and the ability to combine different perspectives into one cohesive plan. Everyone on the team brought unique ideas and strengths, and learning how to work together toward a common goal was invaluable,” she said. “Looking back, it was one of the best examples of how NDSU prepared us for the realities of the construction industry, where successful projects depend on teamwork, planning and solving problems together.”

Beyond the classroom, Grandalen credits her professors, supportive staff and classmates with helping shape her college experience and preparing her for a successful career.

The path to success

NDSU's College of Engineering provides students with opportunities to connect with industry professionals through internships, company visits and industry tours. Grandalen's own career with McGough began while she was still a student, when she accepted an internship with the company in 2015.

“The construction management program's strong reputation and connections within the construction industry opened doors and provided valuable networking opportunities,” she said. “NDSU prepared me not only with the technical skills needed to succeed but also with the confidence, communication and leadership abilities to grow throughout my career.”

After graduating, Grandalen joined McGough full-time as a project engineer before advancing to assistant superintendent and superintendent. In addition to her work with McGough, she also serves in the North Dakota Army National Guard.

Grandalen encourages students interested in construction management to consider the many opportunities the profession offers.

“The construction industry offers a wide range of opportunities and career paths. It’s a fast-paced environment that is both challenging and rewarding, requiring a strong work ethic as well as good people skills,” Grandalen said. “No two days on a construction site are exactly the same, which keeps the day-to- day exciting. It’s an industry where you’re constantly learning and always communicating.”

Her advice to future construction management students is simple: get involved early and take advantage of every opportunity to gain hands-on experience.

“College goes by quickly, and the students who benefit the most are those who actively seek out internships, student organizations, industry events and conversations with professionals in the field,” she said. “Those experiences make the classroom material much more meaningful and help you better understand where you want to take your career.”

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