As an intern, I had already gained a handful of important skills as a junior in the M.E. Rinker, Sr. School of Construction Management at the University of Florida. During my studies, I obtained my OSHA 30 certification, general construction knowledge, and became familiar with programs such as Bluebeam and Navisworks. However, working directly onsite all summer offered a whole new perspective and hands-on learning that went beyond the classroom.

Being part of such a collaborative and engaging team allowed me to play a role in various phases of the project, from helping with project startup to being a part of the excavation/shoring for the secondary clarifier. One of my most challenging and rewarding tasks involved combining all the yard pipe drawings and generating a list of materials needed. I then reconciled that list with the materials that had already been delivered and those that were purchased but had not yet arrived. This was a crucial task because we were eagerly waiting for pipes/fittings to be put in the ground to ensure the schedule remained on track.

I used a methodical process to complete this assignment. First, I used Bluebeam to mark up the drawings and measure pipe lengths to determine quantities. I also referenced the 3D model to ensure all pipes were accounted for. Some challenges I faced included understanding the plant schematic and how each structure interacts with others, and knowing which pipe/fitting is needed in each scenario. I learned so much throughout this process, including how to read yard pipe/under slab pipe drawings, details about various pipe materials, and how to best coordinate with our supplier.

Along with my numerous office responsibilities, I also had the opportunity to use and get comfortable with the Trimble GPS. I learned to fully set up and use the GPS and how to use it to shoot points to excavate for pipe and check for accuracy after installation. It was fulfilling to see how my efforts contributed to the overall project success!

I also took on assignments in planning and procurement. A particularly meaningful moment was when I completed my first work plan for the pressure testing of all pipes onsite. There was a lot that went into this task but, working closely with Project Superintendent Brendan Flood and Project Director Andrew Crouse, I gained confidence and a deeper understanding of what really goes into making an accurate and effective work plan. It motivated me to not only keep developing my skills but push myself further.

My days were also filled with numerous meetings where I developed an appreciation for the teamwork and coordination required to keep the project running smoothly. Additionally, I substantially enhanced my proficiency in Bluebeam and Procore, which is an essential component for modern project management.

This experience has made me more motivated and eager to be a part of construction, and I feel better prepared for a career in this industry. I am proud of the contributions I made and grateful for the support and guidance from the PC team. I will definitely miss working with them but will carry these lessons forward as I continue my journey.

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Being a part of such a communicative and collaborative team allowed me to be involved with the various project phases, from surveying to commissioning. Among the more complex tasks was using surveying equipment with my fellow engineers to grade and, in particular, field-measuring fiberglass ladders before fabrication. Additionally, I measured the elevations of welded beams before the erection of precast roof planks and also assisted with excavation layout. I learned to review shop drawings in several submittal packages and worked closely with manufacturers when coordination issues arose. For example, when I noticed a railing was restricting an oscillating HVAC damper, I field-measured the correct clearance and coordinated with the vendor.

Other project opportunities included performing quantity takeoffs for various materials ahead of communicating with vendors and suppliers for procurement. I completed a takeoff of stem extensions for submerged gate valves 鈥?using calculations based on the dimensions of each valve and the final grade elevation 鈥?and then corresponded these with the proper size of stem extension.

Another rewarding moment came when I worked with the senior commissioning manager to create a master equipment log. We reviewed all the piping and instrumentation diagrams and then recorded all key information, including spec, system, equipment, quantity, tag number and manufacturer. It was highly motivating to see my work have a positive impact on the project.

Additional highlights of my onsite experience included participating in weekly project look-ahead meetings, coordination meetings and office staff meetings. Together, these meetings allowed me to see everyone’s contributions come together and cultivate smooth and timely site operations. I was even able to hone my skills on key software platforms, including Bluebeam Revu and Procore, as essential technology tools to keep the project moving forward.

This comprehensive and enlightening experience has made me more confident, capable and motivated for my future in the construction industry. I am proud of the impact I made in such a short time, and I want to thank the PC project team for encouraging me to get involved and always taking the time to answer all my questions. I will miss my teammates, certainly. It’s easy to see how much PC puts people first, and I appreciated it immensely.

As I return to college this fall, I am committed to incorporating the PC values into my everyday life. At the end of the day, we are all BUILDING STRONGER, TOGETHER.

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Wentworth integrates real work practice into our college experience through a co-op program, where students find jobs on their own and work in their major of interest. These opportunities are a big part of the curriculum because they allow students to learn what they do and don鈥檛 like about the workforce they are about to enter. This process also provides students with valuable exposure to the applicant process.

This opportunity at PC is so important for me because the classes I am taking span a myriad of potential career directions. This internship focuses on one piece 鈥?construction management. Every day on the jobsite with PC I can learn about the construction process and determine if this is the right direction for my future.

I am currently working as an office engineer intern at the Weidmann Electrical Technology Manufacturing Expansion project in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. I work with an extremely helpful team who keep me busy and spend the time to thoroughly explain their work and processes to me. Since I have been here, I鈥檝e learned about submittals, RFIs, daily logs, punch lists, material orders and closeout. I even completed my OSHA 10 certification! I get to see the inside process of communication with engineers and supervisors to make sure every step of a plan is carried through safely and correctly.

The Weidmann project is progressing steadily across its three major construction areas: the聽Warehouse,聽BM2 Equipment Upgrades, and the聽Fab North Addition.

• Warehouse: A major milestone was achieved on聽June 2聽when the Warehouse received its聽Certificate of Occupancy 鈥?a huge accomplishment! Construction began just five months ago, and the team successfully navigated numerous challenges, including material delays and harsh winter conditions. All structural steel, framing, roofing, siding, and miscellaneous specialties were installed by聽PC鈥檚 Special Projects Group, a testament to the versatility and skill of our self-perform team.
• BM2 Equipment Upgrades: The BM2 area also hit some exciting milestones, including the installation of a聽dump chest聽and a聽70,000-pound, 1000Hp boiler. Preparations are underway for a significant facility shutdown in聽early October, which will last聽six weeks聽as work occurs聽seven days a week. This period will be critical for completing the bulk of the equipment upgrades and installations.
• Fab North Addition: Affectionately nicknamed聽鈥淏ig Foot鈥澛燽y the owner, the Fab North Addition began聽steel erection in mid-May聽and is moving at an impressive pace. Like the Warehouse, the structural steel, miscellaneous metals, siding, and framing are being handled by聽PC鈥檚 Special Projects Group.

Working alongside an active manufacturing site has been a unique and fascinating experience. I capture daily photos, and the transformation from when I first arrived to now is striking. It is inspiring to witness how fast, yet detailed construction can be鈥攁nd how essential teamwork is at every stage of the process.

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