NAME: Chris Thomas
WORKSITE: Ocotillo Village Health Club, Chandler, Arizona
MAJOR: Construction Management
SCHOOL: Arizona State University
YEAR: 2014
What drew you to Sundt?
The great reputation of the company and a great opportunity to work with the best drew me in.
What does a typical day at Sundt look like for you?
I do a mix of inside and outside work including a lot of learning from my project manager and the superintendents.
What have you learned about the real world of construction that surprised you?
The importance of marketing, business development and bidding jobs.
How have you benefited by working with a mentor every day?
The pace at which you learn on the job far exceeds classroom training.
Best book read recently?
Twelve Mighty Orphans by Jim Dent. This is a book about a real Texas orphanage football team from the 1930s. They end up beating most of the larger high school teams of their era and come very close to winning multiple state titles. They end up having a sizeable national following. Their coach was one of the originators of the spread offense because of the players’ small size. Their teams never had more than 15 players. The perseverance and toughness of the orphans in the face of seemingly unbeatable odds and tragic beginnings is very inspiring.
App you couldn’t live without?
The coolest app I’ve heard of lately is ‘Cycloramic’ for iPhone.
Favorite quote/ inspirational saying?
“Persistence guarantees results.”
What advice would you give for the future interns of Sundt?
Listen, follow advice and pay attention in meetings.