For those looking to build a successful career in construction, Gray & Son offers an unparalleled opportunity to gain hands-on experience while developing a deep understanding of the construction industry.
Gray & Son’s internship program is designed to nurture the next generation of construction professionals, providing valuable exposure to real-world projects, mentorship from experienced professionals, and the tools necessary for long-term success.
Real-World Experience and Professional Development
Interns at Gray & Son are not just observers; they are given responsibilities that challenge them and help them grow in the field. Whether it’s working alongside skilled construction workers on a job site or assisting with the development of construction strategies, Gray & Son ensures that interns have the chance to make a tangible impact on ongoing projects.
Chris Drussell, a former intern who now serves as the Operations Management Specialist at Gray & Son, recalls how his internship experience shaped his career:
“During my first internship, my primary responsibilities were as a laborer on Steve McHugh’s utility crew. With this, I helped the crew on a variety of different tasks, which laid my foundation for utility work. My next internship at Gray & Son allowed me to rotate through different departments, including utility, stone, dirt, project management, and estimating. This exposure helped me discover what I truly enjoyed in construction and ultimately guided my career path.”
The company’s commitment to construction safety is evident in every internship experience. Interns are not only taught the technical aspects of the job but are also educated on the importance of workplace safety, ensuring that they are prepared to work responsibly in any construction environment. This is crucial as safety is a cornerstone of Gray & Son’s operations, where each project is completed with the well-being of all workers at the forefront.
Chris emphasized how this aspect of the internship prepared him for his full-time role:
“When it came time for my rotation in safety, I already had the training to recognize hazards and correct them. That foundation allowed me to transition seamlessly into the field, where safety is always the top priority.”
Testimonials from Current and Former Interns
Chris’s journey from intern to foreman is a testament to the growth opportunities available at Gray & Son. Reflecting on his proudest moment, he shared:
“My proudest moment as an intern was when I first got into the ditch with Steve McHugh’s crew. That was my first real taste of utilities, and it cemented my love for the field. I knew then that I wanted to work in the field rather than in a purely design-focused role.”
Challenges are a natural part of any internship, and for Chris, one of the biggest was staying committed to finishing his degree:
“From my first internship, I knew I wanted to work in the field, and design work didn’t interest me. However, I realized that completing my civil engineering degree would give me the skills to manage projects and advance faster in my career. That perspective helped me push through and complete my education, which has been invaluable in my growth within Gray & Son.”
Opportunities for Career Advancement
Gray & Son’s internship program goes beyond just providing a summer job or short-term experience. Interns are encouraged to return year after year to build on what they’ve learned. Many former interns, like Chris, have moved on to full-time positions within the company, bringing with them a wealth of knowledge gained from the program.
“The transition from intern to a full-time position was very easy for me. After completing my internships and earning my degree, I started at Gray & Son in an Operations Management Specialist role. The experience I gained as an intern allowed me to jump in immediately and contribute to estimating and field operations.”
Today, Chris is a foreman with ambitions to continue climbing the ranks:
“My next step is to become a superintendent. As my knowledge of utilities and management skills grow, I hope to oversee a division. Eventually, I aspire to become a VP of site operations, overseeing projects at a higher level.”
A Commitment to the Future of Construction
Gray & Son’s internship program is just one of the ways the company is investing in the future of the construction industry. By providing early-career professionals with the resources, guidance, and hands-on experience they need, Gray & Son is building not only projects but also the careers of tomorrow.
Chris offers this advice to future interns:
“Take in as much as you possibly can. Even if you don’t love the task at hand, you never know when that knowledge will come in handy. Getting out of your comfort zone will make you an asset wherever you end up.”
Join Gray & Son’s Internship Program
If you’re ready to take the first step toward a rewarding career in construction, Gray & Son’s internship program is the perfect place to start. Gain hands-on experience, work alongside industry professionals, and develop the skills that will make you a leader in the construction field.