Jordan and Jaydan Crawford graduated from the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering and Florida A&M University in civil engineering in Spring 2025. (Courtesy FAMU)
Civil engineering graduates launch careers at top construction firms with zero student debt
Jordan and Jaydan Crawford crossed the commencement stage together, just as they stepped onto the Hill four years ago—not only as identical twins but as shining examples of perseverance, purpose and the power of support.
With civil engineering degrees in hand, zero student loan debt and competitive internships at top construction firms, they are laying the foundation for careers that will literally shape the world.
Launching Their Engineering Careers
This summer, both twins bring their classroom knowledge to the real world through prestigious industry internships.
Jordan is interning in Greenville, South Carolina, with Kiewit, one of North America’s leading construction and engineering firms, working on a major 700-foot dam project to improve local floodplains.
“It’s new to me, but I’m doing something that’s very deep down in my field as a civil engineer,” he said.
Meanwhile, Jaydan will be in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, interning with Skanska USE Civil Southeast Inc., working on a 3.2-mile bridge replacement project that will improve regional transportation infrastructure.
“This is actually my second summer with them. I estimated this bridge job last year, so it’s nice to see this part through,” he said.
Both Jordan and Jaydan plan to pursue a master’s degree in structural engineering and are working toward obtaining their Professional Engineer (PE) license in civil-structure.
Empowered Through CeDAR
The twin graduates of the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering got their start with the help of Florida A&M University’s Center for Disability Access and Resources (CeDAR), which supports students with documented disabilities through academic and housing accommodations, emotional support animal registration, scholarships and advocacy.
The program also offers the College Study Skills Institute (CSSI) for students who may not meet traditional admission criteria. Through this pathway, the Crawfords joined the “Highest of Seven Hills.”
“CeDAR was the program that accepted me, along with the Educating Engineering Students Innovatively (EESI),” said Jordan. “Those were the two programs that saw something in me. I really wanted to come to FAMU. I came in Summer B to prove myself.”
From Challenges to Leadership Opportunities
Initially denied admission due to standardized testing scores, Jordan’s determination opened doors. With CeDAR’s support, he and his brother transformed academic challenges into leadership opportunities.
“Having FAMU accommodate me and offer those resources was extremely helpful—especially the mentorship and support,” Jordan said.
Jaydan added, “Coming from predominantly white institutions, I didn’t know what to expect from an HBCU. But CeDAR gave me insight — this is how we treat our FAMULY.”
From day one, the twins said CeDAR became more than a program—it was their safety net, launchpad and community.
“The quiet testing space really helped me,” Jordan said. “The sound of a pen click can be a distraction. CeDAR understood what I needed.”
But it wasn’t just about receiving support but giving it. Jaydan credits CeDAR and EESI for helping him evolve into a confident mentor.
“CeDAR didn’t just make me a student,” he said. “It helped me become a mentor and inspired me to encourage others not to limit themselves because of a disability. At the same time, EESI recognized my potential and supported my growth. Together, these programs motivated me to lead and uplift others.”
Thanks to the guidance and encouragement of CeDAR staff—including Director Deborah Sullivan, Academic Advisor Gwendolyn Johnson & Joshua Lowder, Learning Specialist Anthony Wooten and Academic Coach Tyesha Thomas—the Crawfords embraced their learning styles and grew into role models on campus.
“Everything we had to offer they took to heart and utilized it. I think that’s part of the reason they were very successful. They integrated what could be possible,” said Sullivan. “I am confident that they are going to continue with such great success.”
Building a Legacy in Civil Engineering
As the 14th and 15th members of their family to attend Florida A&M University, the Crawfords arrived in Summer 2021 determined to carve out their own legacies—and they did just that.
They were active members of the Engineering Living-Learning Community (ELLC), Educating Engineering Student Innovatively (EESI), the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), and Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society. Both also served as executive board liaisons for the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), linking fellow students with professional opportunities.
Academic Excellence and Peer Leadership
Jordan served as a Peer-Assisted Study Session (PASS) leader in EESI. Through this position, Jordan encouraged creative problem-solving environments and helped freshmen foster academic success and a sense of community within the program. He also earned recognition as a Theodore & Vivian Johnson Scholar, National Science Foundation STEM Scholar and a Cabot-FOSSI STEM Scholar.
Jaydan, recognized for his calm confidence, also served as a Peer-Assisted Study Session (PASS) leader in EESI, where he facilitated collaborative learning and played a key role in ensuring the smooth execution of academic sessions, supporting the educational progress of his engineering peers. In addition, he was honored as both a Theodore & Vivian Johnson Scholar and a National Science Foundation STEM Scholar.
“For me, leadership means lifting others and creating opportunities for future Rattlers to thrive,” he said. “My dream is to return to the Hill and support students the way I was supported. I want to help build an engineering living facility for FAMU-FSU students.”
Inspiring the Next Generation of Engineers
Jordan wants others managing learning differences to face them with pride.
“There’s nothing to be ashamed of. If you need help, get the help that you need. I’m proof you can do that—and more,” he urged.
As the twins take the next steps in their careers, one thing’s for sure: their foundation is FAMU—and the future they are engineering is built to last.
Editor’s Note: This article was edited with a custom prompt for Claude 3.7 Sonnet, an AI assistant created by Anthropic. The AI optimized the article for SEO discoverability, improved clarity, structure and readability while preserving the original reporting and factual content. All information and viewpoints remain those of the author and publication. This disclosure is part of our commitment to transparency in our editorial process. Last edited: 05/30/2025.
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