$25,000 Gift: Alfred State College graduate is now President of Hamilton Stern Construction
From Alfred State College, pictured is Jason Van Zeilen, ’92, presented a check to Carrie Cokely, Vice President for Academic Affairs
Jason Van Zeilen, ’92, hadn’t set foot on the Alfred State campus in 30 years. Fueled by a desire to help the next generation of students build their future, a recent visit brought back a flood of memories
A graduate of the Construction Engineering Technology program, Jason credits Alfred State with launching his career. From his first job as a surveyor to his current role as president of Hamilton Stern Construction, the skills and lessons he learned on campus have stayed with him.
“It’s great to be back after thirty years,” Jason said. “Some things look the same, as you might expect in a small town like Alfred, and some things – like the Engineering Technology Building – have evolved with renovations and new technology.”
During his visit, Jason connected with current Civil Engineering Technology Professor Erin Vitale and explored updated classrooms and labs. One stop brought back memories.
“It’s such an honor to be sitting in the Doc Bruce Materials Lab, right next door to where Art McLaughlin’s classroom was – where I took surveying. Doc Bruce and Art really made an impression on me. They took the time to know you as a person and as a student.”
That surveying class turned out to be pivotal. After graduation, Jason landed a summer surveying job with a commercial contractor in Rochester – an opportunity that unexpectedly launched his career.
“I never thought that’s what I’d end up doing, but it was the first opportunity that came along,” he said. “I worked as a construction surveyor for about a year, and then they offered me a full-time position as a field superintendent.”
Jason spent nearly nine years at that company, eventually managing all field operations. His career path led him to Hamilton Stern Construction, where he initially managed field operations before becoming president three years ago.
Now, he’s passionate about breaking down misconceptions about the construction industry.
“It’s a tougher field to get people interested in,” he said. “But once they’re integrated, supported, and see the real career path, it’s incredibly rewarding.”
To mark Hamilton Stern Construction’s 15th anniversary, the company chose to give back. They’ve established an endowed scholarship at Alfred State – and at other area colleges – aimed at supporting students in construction and civil engineering.
“Our idea was to inspire young people to see this industry as one where you can build not only great projects but great relationships,” Jason said. “I love the idea of giving back to a place that helped launch my career.”
Hamilton Stern Construction is now a regular participant in Alfred State career fairs, hoping to connect with the next generation of talent.
“We’re finding people from this area again – students from the Southern Tier, Buffalo, or Rochester – who could be future employees and leaders in our company.”
Beyond academic and career growth, Jason’s visit reminded him of the strong personal bonds he built at Alfred.
“When you’re in Alfred, you get to know everybody,” he said. “I’m still in touch with the friends I made – some of the best friends I have in my life.”
Returning to the place where it all began and helping future professionals follow a similar path has been both humbling and rewarding.
“To be able to give back to a place I hold so special – and make an impact on students entering this field – is just incredible,” Jason said. “Thirty years ago, I never imagined I’d be in this position. To say that today – I’m very proud.”
Alumni are always welcome at Alfred State. Whether you’re stopping by your old dorm, revisiting your favorite classroom, or sitting beneath the Bell Tower, like Jason, you may just rediscover what made Alfred so unforgettable!
