For as long as we can remember, Hill & Wilkinson’s internship program has been a treasured part of our culture. Each summer we provide between ten and 15 internships a year from the office to the field. Historically, many of our valued employees began as interns, so each year we excitedly view our internship process as what could be just the beginning of something great.
“Halfway through my first summer I knew I wanted to come back,” Jazak recalled. “But the thing that really brought me back was the people. Every person here wants you to succeed. From office to field, everyone is rooting for you and wants to teach you more about what they do.”
As Jazak reflected on his time as an intern, he noted how beneficial the internship program is to someone new to the industry.
“I enjoyed all the field ops we went to and got to see many different sites and aspects of construction. Every superintendent I met was great. They all took the time to explain to me any questions I had, and went beyond to make sure I understood.”
Professional Development Manager Terri Gaber coordinates Hill & Wilkinson’s participation in ten to 15 career fairs every fall at universities across the country, where we get to meet intern candidates.
“It is important that as a company we exhibit a ‘learning’ culture for our interns,” Terri explained. “Internship programs are very competitive, and the students that select H&W as the place they want to intern are expecting us to provide them with a fun, educational, and welcoming environment. Many times, we only get one chance at a first impression, so it’s important we make it the best one ever!”
To ensure that we are providing our interns with the full H&W experience, we host two events during the summer specifically for them. This year we had a ball conducting our first Intern Open House. Led by Terri, our interns took a tour throughout the office, competing for raffle tickets, learning what each department does, and enjoying lunch. Another event that is beloved by the whole company is our intern End of the Summer Party, where interns and employees enjoy bowling, games, and a meal together.
“The culture here is unlike anything I have seen before, and it makes coming to work every day so much easier,” Jazak said. “I am thankful for two internships with great leaders that I now call co-workers and friends.”
