September 5, 2025
High-achieving student pursues his passion at JCCC
While in high school, Shayne McRae received a Kansas City Royals Charities All-Star scholarship and a Black Achievers of Greater KC scholarship. He was in the 20/20 Leadership youth development program and named a Student of the Month in the Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools. He wanted to attend JCCC when he graduated, but his high school counselor encouraged this high-flying student to choose a four-year university instead.
A year later, after much personal cost and time, he left the university and is thrilled to be working on an associate degree in construction management at JCCC.
“I was having academic shock and struggled quite a bit,” Shayne says. “I also was studying supply chain management, which really wasn’t my passion.”
From struggling to excelling
"JCCC is THE campus for whatever you want to study, whatever you want to become." ~ Shayne McRae, construction management student
He had kept the contact information of a JCCC construction management professor, so he reached out, applied, and started the program. Shayne likes that the degree offers a good return on investment while helping him get into the workforce more quickly. He also appreciates the way faculty roots for him to succeed.
After his first year in the program, he interned with JE Dunn Construction, a major regional company, and worked on K-12 school construction projects in Maryville, Missouri. “The hands-on experience really solidified my interest in commercial construction,” says Shayne.
He hopes the tools he developed as an intern propel him into a career in project management and construction operations using green materials. He’s looking into adding an electrical technology degree to increase his marketability and help him pursue his passion of working on renewable energy data centers that power AI and other data generation.
“JCCC is one of the best higher ed institutions you could attend—from academics to getting help with choosing your career to a very nice campus and great student life.”
JCCC might be right for you, too.
Just as Shayne has benefited from JCCC’s small class sizes, numerous free resources on campus, and financial aid, you may find these qualities are perfect for you.
Consider JCCC’s low tuition rates with no additional fees. Our flexible courses fit your schedule, allowing you to learn in person or online. You’ll also benefit from helpful resources like FREE tutoring and a support team to guide you.
You just might discover that you belong at JCCC.