During my time at Messer Construction, I was tasked with many different things. Some things I completed during my work terms were completing various forms of document control, assisting in layout to determine constructability, and attend inspections with the army corps of engineers. I enjoyed the roles and responsibilities I was given. I also enjoyed the atmosphere and help I received during my work terms. I worked on two different projects that were in different phases, so I liked that I was able to see and do different things.
What I wish was different
I truly did enjoy all of the work I did with Messer Construction. There are not many things I would change. One of my least favorite tasks was hyperlinking contract drawings, but it was an essential thing for me to complete. I wish my time with the company was longer so that I could learn more.
Advice
One piece of advice I would give would be don't be afraid to ask questions. Everyone on the job site is willing to help with whatever you need. Also, I would say to take time to just walk the site and see what other people are doing. By doing this, I was able to learn construction processes and many other things. Additionally, stay connected with your managers throughout the semesters because this gives you the opportunity for a potential job offer.
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Co-op
January - August 2024 • Dayton, OH
What I liked
At Messer, I completed weekly quality inspections, assisted subcontractors with getting into Wright Patterson AFB, uploaded/entered requests for information (RFIs) to the drawing sets, and much more. I enjoyed having opportunities to walk with project engineers/managers to understand how the construction work gets done and what the problem solving or subcontractor coordination can look like on a daily basis. I also enjoyed taking on responsibilities as my time with the company went on, making me feel that I had value and had a significant contribution to the project. The people are friendly and interested in your growth.
What I wish was different
Sometimes I wish there had been better communication about who was doing what work or when certain walks/meetings were happening. These instances led to more work than necessary or missed learning opportunities. There were also times where miscommunication occurred which led to stressful confrontations. I wish that in those instances of miscommunication that the confrontations could've been replaced with calmer approaches with interest in understanding why the problem occurred.
Advice
I could see myself spending 45+ hours at work a week as a full time employee at Messer, being paid salary. This rewards exposure, learning, and potentially quicker growth as an employee versus other companies. It can be a significant investment. Messer is a great place to be exposed to what general contracting is like in the real world and is worth investing time and effort in as a co-op. There is a wealth of knowledge to learn for those who seek it.
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Project Engineer
May - August 2021 • Charlotte, NC
What I liked
I connected with a number of professionals. There was something to learn from everyone that I met. From Project managers, project executives, project engineers, foreman's, subcontractors, interns, etc.
What I wish was different
N.A.
Advice
Be open. There is a lot to take in at first so ask questions. You are not expected to know everything.
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Building Systems Group Intern
May - August 2020 • Nashville, TN
What I liked
The project team I worked with was great. They were able to see early on that they could trust me with time management and complex tasks. I was given lots of responsibility early on and was able to help the team meet crucial deadlines and our pass state inspections.
What I wish was different
The only thing I wish would have been different was getting to know the foreman earlier. I was able to form good relationships with the foremen at our project. They were able to help me better understand the work they perform, teach me more about the equipment they were installing, and how that equipment works together with other systems.
Advice
My best advice is to ask questions and keep good communication between the project team and foremen. No one is born knowing all the facts about construction but asking the right question can help you better understand the work and workflow. Good communication keeps everyone on the same page and allows those good relationships to form. The better communication you have, the more people are willing to help you and work with you.
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IT co-op
May - August 2020 • Cincinnati, OH
What I liked
I enjoyed the variety of tasks and projects that I had. Each day was different.
What I wish was different
The only thing that I would've changed is better communication between co-workers.
Advice
Don't be afraid to take initiative and seek out experience.
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Marketing & Sales Support Co-op
January - August 2019 • Cincinnati, OH
What I liked
I loved the people on my teams and the meaningful work I produced. Each day I got to contribute real, impactful work to project proposals and the company website. I also wrote many articles on key happenings that were occurring in the company, which allowed me to learn how to write to inform large audiences. I also co-managed multiple groundbreaking events, video shoots, and interview preps.
What I wish was different
I wish I had more opportunities to go on project site visits. I did two co-op terms with Messer (spring and summer 2019), and I was able to go on around six different project site tours. These were some of my favorite parts of my co-op because I got to learn all about construction - a subject that I previously knew nothing about. It gave me an entirely new perspective on construction and allowed me to gain so much knowledge on how construction gives communities many different opportunities.
Advice
I would say that whoever is entering into a co-op with a company who specializes in something that they know little to nothing about, such as construction, to not be intimidated. In the end, you are there to learn and grow in your professional experiences and build a foundation for your career. You will be surprised how willing people are to teach you what you want to learn, so never be afraid to ask questions.
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Project Engineer Co-op
January 2019 • Columbus, OH
What I liked
Gave me an insight to the construction industry
What I wish was different
It was longer so I would’ve had more experience.
Advice
Don’t be afraid to take risks.
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Safety Co-Op
August 2019 • Lexington, KY
What I liked
Everything, Messer is a great company and they do a lot of work in many different locations.
What I wish was different
Nothing really.
Advice
If you intern/co-op with Messer, you will learn a lot about the field of construction and you will gain a ton of knowledge and experience in your specific major.
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Field Co-op
May 2016 • Cincinnati, OH
What I liked
It was a great learning experience and everyone there was very willing to teach me and answer and questions I had.
What I wish was different
Advice
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project enginner
May - August 2018 • Louisville, KY
What I liked
Field experience
What I wish was different
Getting to see other locations and projects
Advice
Make the best of it and ask as many questions as possible. It shows that you are interested and eager to learn, while expanding your knowledge
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Co-op
January - May 2016 • Lexington, KY
What I liked
Great environment! I was given lots of opportunities to grow and see what the construction field was all about. I had great leadership and offered lots of time to work!
What I wish was different
I wish I was given more responsibility
Advice
No matter what kind of environment you get put in, do your best work so you will have no doubt.
