WRITER: Alejandro Najera-Acosta, 575-646-2025, a_najera@nmsu.edu
The Hunt Center for Entrepreneurship at New Mexico State University’s Arrowhead Center celebrated the achievements of Qianyun (Gloria) Zhang, an assistant professor in NMSU’s civil engineering department, as she was officially presented with the inaugural Aggie Construction Innovator of the Year Award Feb. 27.
The award, a cornerstone of the Mike Hunt Construction Sprints program, recognizes faculty who demonstrate exceptional leadership, creativity and impact in the construction industry. Zhang’s groundbreaking research in structural health monitoring, advanced materials and data-driven construction solutions earned her the distinguished honor.
Held in conjunction with NMSU’s Hult Prize Student Idea Pitch Competition, the event showcased innovation and entrepreneurship in the construction sector. Zhang’s contributions were celebrated alongside student-led projects aimed at addressing global construction challenges.
“It is a privilege to be the first recipient of the Aggie Construction Innovator of the Year Award,” Zhang said. “This recognition reinforces the importance of bridging cutting-edge research with real-world applications. I am grateful to the Hunt Center and the Mike Hunt Construction Sprints program for their support in fostering innovation among faculty and students alike.”
During the event, Hunt Center director Carlos Murguia highlighted the award’s significance in advancing construction technology and entrepreneurship at NMSU.
“At the Hunt Center, we believe in empowering faculty and students to push the boundaries of innovation,” Murguia said. “Dr. Zhang’s work exemplifies the kind of transformative impact we aim to support through the Mike Hunt Construction Sprints program. Her leadership in research and mentorship is inspiring the next generation of engineers and entrepreneurs.”
Zhang, the founder of Z-Lab at NMSU, has played a pivotal role in advancing construction research and fostering student innovation. Her work has been prominently featured in entrepreneurship competitions such as the Bold Idea Challenge and Aggie Shark Tank, where her students have secured top honors and investor interest.
The award presentation capped an exciting evening of entrepreneurial pitches and discussions on the future of construction technology. The event underscored the Hunt Center’s commitment to driving innovation in the construction industry while equipping students and faculty with the resources needed to bring groundbreaking ideas to market.
For more information about the Hunt Center for Entrepreneurship, contact Murguia at cmurguia@nmsu.edu or visit https://arrowheadcenter.nmsu.edu/program/the-hunt-center/.
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PHOTO CAPTION: Qianyun (Gloria) Zhang (left) holds the Inaugural Aggie Construction Innovator of the Year award after being recognized for groundbreaking research in construction technology and dedication to student mentorship at NMSU. (Courtesy photo)
IMAGE DESCRIPTION: Two women holding a plaque.