Blog Entries

Internships are a great opportunity to gain real world professional experience before graduation. Each summer, Miron Construction welcomes a number of interns to work in all areas of our company. Every intern’s experience is unique. Rather than us tell you about it, we have invited fifteen interns to share their journeys on our blog over the next few months. In previous posts, we met William, Wyatt, and Collin. Today, we introduce Spencer.

SPENCER KRAUTKRAMER – PROJECT MANAGEMENT INTERN

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF.
My name is Spencer Krautkramer. I am a junior at UW-Milwaukee and am majoring in civil engineering. This fall semester, I am attending the University of Birmingham in England.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN AN INTERN WITH MIRON?
This is my first summer interning with Miron Construction. I had already been aware of Miron and its reputation for quality work in the construction industry, but I looked further into the company after talking with a previous intern. I soon noticed how strong an internship program Miron provides and that’s what really pulled me in.

WHEN DID YOU FIRST BECOME INTERESTED IN A CAREER IN CONSTRUCTION?
I have been interested in construction ever since I was a child, but my interest grew tremendously this past summer. I have always enjoyed working on projects around the house and stopping by job sites to see what was happening. Near the end of high school, I began thinking about taking the design route, but after working for Miron I have really discovered my love for construction.

WHAT IS THE COOLEST THING YOU HAVE LEARNED SO FAR THIS SUMMER?
This is a tough one. I have learned so much this summer, so it is difficult to pick one specific thing. One of the coolest things I’ve learned is how precast floor planks and wall panels are set. I was fascinated by the communication process between the workers and the crane operator and how efficiently tasks can be done with the equipment and technology we have today.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR INTERNSHIP?
My favorite part about my internship is watching a project come together from the plans to completion and being a part of that process. Unfortunately, I don’t get to see the project in its entirety, but it was amazing to see the progress in just a couple of months. I’ve really enjoyed working with the superintendent and subcontractors onsite and having the ability to be on the actual project site. I have experienced many hands-on learning opportunities, which makes learning that much more enjoyable.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE HARDEST PART OF YOUR INTERNSHIP?
The hardest part has been getting familiar with all the construction terms and understanding how each of the trades are performed (and in what order). It is like another language with a lot to absorb in a few short months. I have learned that asking a few simple questions can go a long way, because the superintendent and tradespeople are all very knowledgeable and willing to help.

DO YOU FEEL THAT YOUR INTERNSHIP IS BETTER PREPARING YOU FOR THE FUTURE? IF SO, IN WHAT WAYS?
Yes! This internship has taught me so many things about construction and project management that I haven’t learned in school. It has also allowed me to improve my communication skills, which is a vital skill in construction. This internship is a great way to gain experience and knowledge about construction before graduation, preparing me for the future. Gaining field experience and understanding the project manager’s role in projects will be beneficial in my near future and career after college.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE OTHER STUDENTS CONSIDERING A SIMILAR INTERNSHIP?
Just do it! Internships are worth your time if you are given the opportunity. You learn both how to apply the skills you learned in school and many new skills you won’t learn in school. Be a sponge, be observant, listen, and soak everything in for the few months of your internship. Another big piece of advice: ask as many questions as possible. People are always willing to help, especially if they know you’re interested in learning.

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE ABOUT YOUR INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE?
I would like to say how grateful I am to have been given this opportunity to work for Miron Construction. I’ve enjoyed going to work every day, and I’m looking forward to what my future holds.

Thanks, Spencer. That’s a wrap for our 2018 summer intern blog series! To find other intern blogs, click here.

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