Piece of Mind Submitted by Danny Edwards
I had the privilege this week to speak with the senior Project Management class at MSU. I must admit my apprehension and anxiety about talking to these bright young intuitive minds. I was quickly put at ease when hands shot up and questions were asked. Their interest level was amazing. I initially started out discussing what situations to look for when looking at bidding any project: what obstacles may arise, staging areas, access to site, utilities, manpower issues. Then the conversation switched over to their senior project, an estimate for building a new library. They had plans, had broken out sections for estimating and their teams were gathering information for the estimate. They were on their own for the most part with little experience but were asking the right questions and breaking the job down to manageable portions. I left feeling pretty good, I weathered most of their questions and I felt good since I could help out!
What I did realize is that we have a great resource for new management positions. These individuals are being trained not only for General contracting PM’s but in the specialty trades, where I think there is a great need. So if you are thinking of hiring or need an intern for summer to help in your office consider MSU students and grads who are looking at our industry for their new careers.
Kathy and Sheryl know who to contact if you are interested in becoming a part of these young lives.