2026 Clemson Hard Hat Ceremony

Thomas & Hutton (T&H) President Jason Chambless, PE, and Chief Growth Officer Kevin Shoemake, P.E., recently joined Clemson University’s annual Hard Hat Ceremony, a tradition recognizing civil engineering students as they progress in their education and prepare for the responsibilities of their future profession.

Each student receives a hard hat representing the work ahead. It serves as a reminder of jobsite safety and the hands-on experience, problem-solving, and perseverance that help shape a civil engineer. The milestone connects what students learn in the classroom with the people and communities their work may one day serve.

As the ceremony’s guest speaker, Jason encouraged students to challenge themselves, build strong relationships, and develop the resilience to learn from setbacks. He also spoke about the role civil engineers play in shaping the roads, water systems, public spaces, and other infrastructure people rely on every day.

“When you put on that hard hat, be proud of what it represents. You are at the beginning of a profession that will give you the opportunity to solve difficult problems, build things that last, and improve people’s lives.”
— Jason Chambless, PE

T&H was proud to sponsor this Clemson tradition and spend time with students as they take the next step in their civil engineering education. We look forward to seeing where their careers take them and what they help build along the way.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]