Edge District internships are a winning strategy in the race to the right career
Internship options run the gamut from low-stress summer gigs and multi-semester practice professions, so students have an important choice to make when the time comes to get some real-world experience under their belts. When a full-time job offer waits at the finish line, the competition for in-demand internships often runs neck-and-neck.
K-State’s Edge District is home to several companies that are serious about the intern-to-full-time pipeline, including McCownGordon Construction. For one student, Andrew Reahr, the company’s estimating internship was worth the work.
What did your internship at McCownGordon entail?
I worked in the preconstruction department with a team of dedicated professionals and a mentor who provided direct support and supervision as I learned the role of estimating. I was able to attend — and eventually help guide — construction site walkthroughs, assist with several projects, participate in a conference, and connect with office members and fellow interns at multiple McCownGordon locations.
I had monthly performance evaluations with the director and senior manager of the preconstruction department to monitor my progress.
How did you land the internship? Were there a lot of applicants?
The program was one of the most sought-after programs in the construction field due to McCownGordon’s dedication to intern success and understanding. I knew I wanted to work for the company, so I began talking with its talent development team and other interns in the spring semester of my junior year. I was thrilled to begin working there that summer!
How did this internship differ from others?
Having an internship on the north side of campus made it possible to extend my experience through the fall semester. I could keep up with new office projects and continue to learn about an estimator’s role at McCownGordon while still having flexibility with my busy class schedule. It also gave me the opportunity to join campus organizations such as the Association of General Contractors, which was extremely beneficial because organizations give students a glimpse of their roles outside of school, helping new hires hit the ground running.
In short: I was able to continue showing my capabilities and increasing my chances of earning a full-time position after graduation.
So what was the outcome?!
Because of this internship, I was able to sign for a full-time position as an estimator before I started my last semester of college. Having that security before graduation allowed me to focus on finishing my schooling while furthering my development in the company. I’m so thankful for the opportunity that McCownGordon gave me. I’d recommend that anyone take advantage of this opportunity through any company in the Edge District.
