Twin brothers Jordan and Jaydan Crawford have graduated with bachelor’s degrees in Civil Engineering from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), defying early academic struggles to create a path toward promising engineering careers.

In 2021, the Crawford twins enrolled at FAMU through the university’s Center for Disability Access and Resources (CeDAR)—a program designed to support students with documented disabilities through academic accommodations, scholarships, and personal development.

Initially denied admission due to low SAT scores, Jordan was determined to find another way in. He joined the university during the Summer B session and worked hard to prove himself.

CeDAR, alongside the Educating Engineering Students Innovatively (EESI) program, saw his potential and welcomed him. “CeDAR was the program that accepted me, along with EESI. Those were the two that saw something in me. I really wanted to come to FAMU,” Jordan said.

“Having FAMU accommodate me and offer those resources was extremely helpful, especially the mentorship and support.”

Jaydan, reflecting on his growth, shared that both programs helped him build confidence and encouraged him to give back.

“CeDAR didn’t just make me a student. 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,” he said.

Beyond academics, the twins actively engaged themselves in campus life. They joined communities like the Engineering Living-Learning Community (ELLC), the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), and the Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society.

They also served as executive board liaisons for the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), where they helped connect fellow students with industry opportunities.

Their efforts paid off. Both brothers have secured prestigious internships with leading U.S. engineering firms. Jordan will be interning with Kiewit, contributing to a 700-foot dam project designed to improve local floodplains.

“It’s new to me, but I’m doing something that’s deep within my field as a civil engineer,” he said. Meanwhile, Jaydan will be spending his second summer with Skanska USA Civil Southeast Inc., working on a 3.2-mile bridge replacement project to enhance regional transportation.

“I estimated this bridge job last year, so it’s exciting to now be part of its actual construction,” he shared.

Looking ahead, both brothers plan to pursue master’s degrees in structural engineering. They are also working toward earning their Professional Engineer (PE) licenses—a step that will officially launch them into their careers as certified civil engineers.