As I reflect on my internship experience, I can't help but think about the incredible journey it has been. I, as the marketing intern, was the first to join, and as the weeks went on, three other interns joined our team. Each of us came from different backgrounds, bringing unique perspectives and skill sets to our respective roles. Stepping into the office for the first time, a whirlwind of excitement, nervousness, and determination filled the air as we embarked on this opportunity. Little did we know that the following months would shape our professional growth, leaving us with lasting memories. I want to share the thoughts and stories of myself and my fellow interns, highlighting the lessons we learned and the lasting friendships we forged. We are all so grateful to New England Construction for this phenomenal experience and take pride in the work we all accomplished during our time here.
Carly (The Marketing Intern) - Embarking on this internship after my freshman year of college has proven to be one of the best decisions I've made for my career. Stepping into this opportunity, I had little idea of how my summer would unfold and was unaware of my capabilities. However, I was immediately struck by the warm and supportive environment at NEC. From the beginning, my colleagues, now friends, went above and beyond to ensure I gained the maximum experience during my brief time as an intern. Immersing myself in the construction industry and understanding the pivotal role of marketing within it has been incredibly rewarding. I had the chance to manage social media platforms, analyze analytics, lead meetings, attend networking events, create, and edit video content, handle requests for proposals, organize client databases, and so much more. I am immensely proud of my accomplishments and grateful to everyone at NEC for their lasting marks on my experience. As my weekdays of 8-5 come to an end, I can't help but feel a bit of sadness. Leaving behind my everyday routine here is bittersweet, but I am fortunate to continue with a part-time remote role managing the social media platforms and handling RFPs as I return to the University of South Carolina. The experiences, lessons, and friendships made during my internship this summer are gems I will always cherish, and I owe it all to New England Construction.
Jacob (The Project Engineer Intern) - As a mechanical engineering major, this internship was unusual for my field of work. With limited experience on construction sites and minimal knowledge of the construction process, I expected a challenging journey. Indeed, my role as a Project Engineer came with its share of difficulties, particularly when assigned to fast-paced projects at Bryant University. Working within a strict summer timeframe and facing constantly changing schedules, I quickly learned the value of effective communication and trust in fostering an efficient workforce. Witnessing how architectural drawings and submittals transform into tangible structures on the field was a completely new experience for me. As a college student, it was eye-opening to witness the incredible effort that goes into building the housing that I originally took for granted. Nevertheless, my overall summer experience has been nothing short of exceptional, largely due to the welcoming nature of the NEC family. Whether it was encouraging me to ask endless questions, arranging meetings with someone from each department, or the team-building events throughout the summer, NEC took every step to ensure I felt like a valued member of the team. This internship has broadened my horizons and enhanced my skills in unthinkable ways, and I know that the experiences and connections I've gained here will throw me toward a successful future.
Matt (The Field Engineer Intern) - The first week of my internship at NEC left me with a whirlwind of emotions. I was immediately pushed into the project at Linear Retail/Ace Hardware in Pawtucket, RI. It was a significant step forward for me, and I felt a sense of excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to gain this experience. In those initial days, I felt a mix of relief and anticipation as I gradually found my footing. Each passing day brought new knowledge and growth. I was entrusted with managing this project, as my own, overseeing every aspect from start to finish, and collaborating with various companies to ensure its successful completion. I had the privilege of working with a supportive team that readily answered my questions and encouraged me to seek guidance without hesitation. Witnessing the transformation of blueprints into tangible structures has been an inspiring experience. NEC's family-oriented atmosphere stands out as a true testament to their values. Everyone, without exception, was there to support me, just a phone call away for any concern. Working with this company has been an absolute pleasure, and I am sincerely grateful for the lessons and experience gained during my internship. I now feel better equipped to face any future challenges that come my way. This has been a significant milestone in my career development.
Collin (The Project Engineer Intern) - The construction industry is truly remarkable because it brings together a diverse array of individuals, each with unique backgrounds, all working toward a shared goal of creating something extraordinary. Joining this field was a decision driven by my desire to witness the completion of projects, knowing the immense effort and dedication invested in them. I came to NEC with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and felt prepared for the change of pace that construction offered, confident that I could tackle the challenges ahead. However, my time at NEC has surpassed all expectations. In this short period, I've learned more about construction than during my entire four years of college. There is nothing like being able to consistently be on an active construction site and learn from those who have gained years of knowledge in their field. NEC has accentuated my belief in the importance of fostering strong relationships within the work community. The people here take on such an important role in your life and there is no better feeling than coming to work every day and connecting with them on a personal level. I believe the reason why the NEC team is such a tight-knit family is that everyone chooses to embrace their differences and truly value what others bring to the table. I am grateful to be a part of this community and excited for the journey ahead!
As our internship journey comes to an end, a profound sense of gratitude fills each of us for the experiences and connections we have gained. We have faced challenges that tested our resilience, adaptability, and shared passion for personal and professional growth. Through these trials, we learned to overcome obstacles, think outside the box, and collaborate effectively as a team. Beyond the technical skills we acquired, we discovered the power of networking, mentorship, and seizing opportunities. As we say goodbye to our intern roles, we carry with us the lessons learned and the friendships, knowing that this experience has laid a foundation for our future careers. To those considering an internship here, we wholeheartedly encourage you to embrace the journey, be open to new experiences, and treasure the connections you make along the way. Thank you, New England Construction as a whole, and our newfound friends for making this internship for each of us an experience beyond our expectations.
