Name: Joel D. Holcomb
Work site: Lanier High School (San Antonio, TX)
Year: Sophomore
Major: Construction Management
School: University of Texas at Tyler
Anticipated Graduation: 2017
What drew you to Sundt?
I have heard from others that Sundt is a great company to work for. I like how Sundt focuses so much on their core values. Another big thing that drew me to Sundt was the ESOP. Even though I do not have access to this benefit it seems like it would be very beneficial.
What does a typical day at Sundt look like for you?
The first thing I do every morning is walk the jobsite with the Superintendent and coordinate with Subcontractors on what tasks are scheduled to be worked on or completed by the end of the day. After that, I assist the Project Engineer in scheduling and coordinating between subcontractors. Along with assisting both the Superintendent and Project Engineer I help write documents such as meeting minutes, submittals, and RFI’s.
What have you learned about the real world of construction that surprised you?
I learned that construction in the real world is not just telling people what to do. You have to build a relationship with your subcontractors. The better the relationship the more respect you will earn from others and the smoother your project will be able to run.
How have you benefited by working with a mentor every day?
By working with a mentor every day I have been able to experience and discuss parts of construction that I was not familiar with. One thing I really noticed I have gained from this internship already is my bettering communication/problem solving skills. Having daily discussions with my mentor about how to approach these situations has greatly benefited me.
What is the best book you’ve read recently?
David and Goliath by Malcolm Gladwell.
What is an app you couldn’t live without?
I’m into fitness so I couldn’t live without MyFitnessPal because I like to keep track of what foods I consumed during a given day, and then break that down into categories such as “protein” and “carbohydrates.”
Favorite quote/inspirational saying?
“Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” – Albert Schweitzer
What advice would you give for the future interns of Sundt?
The most important advice that I can give future interns is to ask questions. If you do not ask questions then people assume that you know what they are talking about. There is nothing wrong with asking questions.