Miller Valentine

Construction Co-op

May - July 2024 • Dayton, OH

What I liked

I enjoyed the project that I worked on, as well as the people that I worked with. Being my first co-op I felt that I was valued and that my development in the construction industry was important. I was able to learn a lot of the terminology, and the overall construction process. Overall my experience was very positive and I was able to learn a lot considering it was my first co-op experience.

What I wish was different

I wish I had taken advantage of how much experience that my coworkers had. I definitely could have asked more questions. Not only my coworkers, but subcontractors as well. Nothing is ever a bad question, and I was able to learn sometimes it’s best to put yourself in uncomfortable situations to learn.

Advice

As I previously mentioned put yourself out there. You only get as much out of it as you put in. So it’s important to take advantage of every day and understand that every opportunity is a learning experience. Even when you think you’ve learned a lot there’s always more to learn.

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Project Technician

May - August 2024 • Cincinnati, OH

What I liked

I enjoyed the split between the office and the job-site, being able to see both side of the construction process helped me get a better understanding of what goes into buildings. The people I worked with were all very helpful and experienced in the field of construction and were willing to help me with whatever questions I had. As well as seeing some of my work be used on site and in meetings throughout my time at Miller Valentine, it gave me a sense of accomplishment and pride to know I was contributing to the project team in a positive way. The culture of people at Miller Valentine was also a big reason I enjoyed working there, everyone was very inviting and made me feel like a part of the team within the first week.

What I wish was different

Overall there's is not much that I would change about my internship. If I had to do anything different it would asking more questions to really learn the entire scope of the project I worked on. Starting sooner would also be something I would've changed after experiencing construction I have found that it is something that genuinely interest me. I could see myself doing this in the future I hope to pursue construction management after my graduation in May.

Advice

Never be afraid to ask questions. The construction world has so many terms and opportunities. This is your opportunity to explore all the aspects bidding, pre-construction, site work and so much more. If you're looking for a career path that will be dynamic, ever changing and never boring I recommend construction management. Take advantage of the opportunities to take classes in construction management it will benefit with this type of experience

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Construction Co-Op

January - May 2022 • Dayton, OH

What I liked

I enjoyed all of the on-site work I got to experience. Field work is an important basis in civil engineering, and seeing how things get done in person will help later on in the office. I've always been a hands on person, so being in the field allowed me to try things I never thought I would be able to try. For example, I was able to be a part of some cool processes like tilt-up panel construction and day-to-day jobsite maintenance. All of these experiences will definitely help me later on in my career.

What I wish was different

As a civil engineering major going into a construction site with no prior experience, it can be a lot to take in. It's a lot to learn, and it can be overwhelming sometimes. On the other hand, learning so many new things at once is always extremely exciting. Being so new and unfamiliar with construction processes and jobsites, there were times where I felt like I had so much more to learn, which was true. This isn't exactly something I would change, just a valuable piece of information that I noticed.

Advice

Being open to trying anything is the biggest piece of advice. Learning by doing has always worked best for me, and you get to tell some pretty cool stories about what you did at work by the end of the day. Being ready to try new things is how you make progress in your career and project yourself in a positive direction. There were a number of times on the job when I was unsure of trying something at first, but ended up being really happy that I did. Gaining experience is the ultimate purpose of any internship/Co-Op, and what better way to do that than trying as much as possible?

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Project Technician

August - December 2021 • Dayton, OH

What I liked

As an on site employee I had to opportunity to see the majority of a project be completed. I learned hands on from Project Managers and Supervisors about the commercial construction process. I also used Procore to help track progress and log updates for the site. I helped coordinate with subcontractors to help solve problems that arose on site.

What I wish was different

Although it was nice to help on one specific project the entire work term, I do wish I had the chance to see other projects in action.

Advice

If you do not have much construction experience, be ready to learn hands on in the field.

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Project Technician

January - August 2019 • Dayton, OH

What I liked

I enjoyed learning from top of the line professionals and gaining great insight in the construction industry. The team I worked with was very helpful and willing to help me in any way possible. I had the opportunity to work in the office as well as in the field. I was able to work on different phases of a construction project which was very meaningful to me.

What I wish was different

Nothing, it was a great experience and I am glad I had the opportunity to work for this company.

Advice

This company will invest in you. Unlike some companies, Miller-Valentine will train you and prepare you for a position after college graduation. This is a great place to learn and a great atmosphere to work in.

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