2023 NAIT Construction Engineering Technology Student Club Career Book

2022/2023

Construction Engineering Technology

CAREER HANDBOOK

President's Address

The last few years have come with their fair share of challenges for all of us. As we reflect on this past year, we can take a moment to celebrate the achievements and successes of the Construction Engineering Technology Program. We would like to thank all the industry members, staff and students for their continuous dedication, hard work, and support.

The global pandemic brought a lot of uncertainty this year, especially within the educational system. Schools had to pivot quickly towards flexible learning platforms as well as develop safe plans for in-person education while still providing their students with an effective education. Despite these challenges, the Construction Engineering Technology Program was able to maintain its high standards while providing students with quality instruction during these unprecedented times. The program adopted new technologies to facilitate hybrid delivery methods and flexible learning plans all while eagerly greeting students in person for the first time in two years.

Despite the disruptions, students were still able to make significant progress during their studies and as we collectively move into another semester and closer to graduation, we will undoubtedly see the effects of this great education in the future of the construction industry. We are also proud to share stories (page 23) from successful students who have completed their studies and are now making positive impacts across the industry.

This year has been filled with both successes and struggles for all of us, but we would like to take a moment to thank all our sponsors, volunteers, and students for their continued commitment and support throughout the years. The determination shown by the program students and staff throughout 2022 is inspiring and helps demonstrate why it remains one of Canada’s leading Construction Engineering Technology programs today! Congratulations again on all your successes thus far and good luck with the remainder of your studies!

Thank you again for your dedication and support!

Emily Bruce, BBA President, CETSC 2022-2023

CONNECT WITH US.

The 2022-2023 Career Handbook is published by the Construction Engineering Technology Student Club on behalf of the student body. The book aims to promote our program to the construction industry while providing students with valuable resources to aid in their upcoming job search. It contains an overview of the academic, charitable, and social aspects of the Construction Engineering Technology Program as well as content reflecting a variety of the many careers students can aspire to.

student club executive team

MITCHELL WATTS

Spencer is a second-year student in the Con. Eng. Tech. Program at NAIT. Spencer joined the student club because he enjoys getting the most out of the student experience and giving back to his community. Through the club and of his own initiative, Spencer has been involved with the organization and management of several charitable efforts and club events, as well as participated in a variety of volunteer initiatives in the impactful areas of environment, community and socio-economics. He has been an active member of the club since starting in school in fall 2021. As a Red-Seal Carpenter and skilled industry labourer, Spencer prides himself on his deep appreciation for both concrete and wood mediums. When not at school he hangs out with his dog and his partner.

Mitchell Watts is a second-year student in the Construction Engineering Technology program. He has a background in carpentry, and a passion for the construction industry. Following the completion of the program in 2023, Mitchell is looking forward to pursuing a career in construction project management. He joined the Construction Engineering Technology Student Club in the fall of 2022 to gain new experiences and to become more engaged with the program and NAIT community and to help fundraise for charitable initiates that benefit his community. Outside of school, he is an avid sports fan, enjoys working on vehicles, and listening to music.

Director, External Affairs

Paul Hingley is a second-year student in the Construction Engineering Technology Program at NAIT. He has a background in hospitality management and has worked in the construction industry. Upon their return to in-person learning, Paul joined the Con. Eng. Student Club to enhance the student experience. Through his involvement in events and networking at NAIT, Paul was able to contribute to the community and was elected to the NAITSA Senate. He has also been fundraising and giving back to the community with the club. Paul enjoys tackling home improvement projects and spending time with his pets in his free time. He also enjoys socializing with friends and participating in leisure activities such as board games and listening to music.

PAUL HINGLEY

VP Finance

VP Operations

student club event coordinators

Hello! I’m Pattrishia Selmo, and I have achieved a bachelor’s Degree in Geological Science and Engineering at home in the Philippines, I wanted to continue my passions here in Canada and so enrolled in the Construction Engineering Technology Program at NAIT. With my interest in Geology, it made me care more about the Earth, so when I graduate, I want to focus more on sustainable construction to protect our environment. I joined the student club in the role of an event coordinator because the engagement and friendships developed in the club gave me a sense of belongingness which helped me a lot, especially since I am an International Student.

Hi! My name is Pio Limio, a second year student in the Construction Engineering program at NAIT. I was born in the Philippines but was raised here in Edmonton, Alberta. I hold the position of Event Coordinator in the student club. My passion for construction, architecture, and sustainability are the reasons why I joined the program and why I'm looking forward to pursuing a career in the construction industry. As a long term goal, I aspire to establish myself in the industry as person who works and builds towards a better future. I joined the student club to create a network of friends and colleagues entering the same industry as well as to have some fun during my final year in the program!

Hi everyone! My name is Connor, and I am an event coordinator and the first-year representative for the Construction Engineering Technology Student Club! In my club roles I've coordinated and hosted events, as well as assisted with managing firstyear communications and involvement. I came into this program straight from high school, so my goals are to work on my knowledge of the trades and build relationships within both the program and the industry. This is one of the many reasons I enjoy volunteering with the club. It’s a great way to meet new people, which, among many things, helps us to understand new ways to help improve the student and industry experience and interactions with the club!

CONNOR MCLAUGHLIN

Program Overview

Construction Engineering Technology (Con. Eng. Tech.) is a 2 or 3 year program offered at NAIT. The Con. Eng. Tech. Program prepares students for a variety of positions in the construction industry, including construction project management, estimating, contract administration, business development, construction management and cost control. Successful graduates of this program have a strong understanding of many aspects of general contracting and the construction process.

Students are eligible to join the Construction Engineering Technology Student Club. Members of the CETSC plan, organize, and execute both charity and fundraising events. This gives an opportunity to give back to the community, collaborate with team members, and exhibit leadership skills.

Major skills Acquired in the prograM

Construction project planning, scheduling, and management

Structural Engineering Fundamentals

Quantity take-off, estimating, and tendering

Contract administration, contract law, and cost control

Computer applications in construction including Procore, MS Project, and Microsoft Office

Knowledge of the construction industry materials, products, and building systems

Technical drawing reading, sketching of details, site surveying, and specification

interpretation

Supervision and construction safety

Study Tips & Tricks

From high schoolers to college students, we all have a lot on our plate. Between classes, extracurriculars, and social life, it can be hard to find time for studying. But don’t worry— with these tips and tricks, you can make the most out of the study time you have!

Create a Schedule

Creating a schedule helps keep your study sessions organized so that you can maximize your produc tivity. Start by writing down all of your commitments such as classes and extracurricular activities. Then, allocate enough time for each commitment as well as for studying and other tasks such as meals or breaks. Be sure to also include time for yourself to relax in order to keep from feeling overwhelmed. Finally, try to stick to this schedule as best you can—you will be less likely to procrastinate if you set aside specific times for studying.

Manage Your Study Time Effectively

Studying requires determining which types of study techniques work for you in order to retain the material effectively. Some may find that reading the textbook or taking notes helps them best, while others may prefer creating visual diagrams or listening to audio recordings. Experimenting with different types of study tech niques and finding out what works best for you is one of the keys to success when studying for exams. If you're still lost, just begin by breaking down the material into smaller chunks to better understand the concepts and retain information. Some helpful active studying methods include visualizing the material, re-writing notes, or creating flashcards.

Find a Suitable Study Environment

Where you choos

conversations happening—for example, a coffee shop or study hall/room at schoo

Ask For Help When Needed

Don't be afraid to ask for help if needed! There are plenty of resources available such as instructors, industry peers, tutors, friends, or family members who can provide assistance if needed. Don't hesitate to reach out - asking questions allows you to gain clarity on topics that were difficult initially but become much easier after seeking advice from someone who knows the material better than yourself!

Break Up Your Studying into Chunks

Take frequent breaks throughout each session rather than cramming everything into one long session—studying in short bursts can help improve focus and concentration when the pressure is on! For example, break up your studying into 30-minute intervals with 510 minute breaks in between each interval. This way, you won’t get bored or tired easily because there will always be something new coming up soon! You may also want to break up different topics into different days so that it doesn’t become overly monotonous or tiring; having something new every day allows motivation and enthusiasm levels to stay high!

Reward Yourself After Each Session

Studying is hard work so don't forget to reqard yourself after each session. Taking breaks throughout the day is essential in order to stay focused and motivated throughout this process - make sure that these breaks include activities such as going on a walk outside or playing a game with friends in order to keep both body and mind healthy throughout the semester.

Studying isn't easy but it doesn't have to be overwhelming either! With effective planning and strategies like creating a schedule and finding the right environment, it is possible to make the most out of the limited amount of time available for studying. Additionally, breaking up studying into chunks helps maintain focus and energy instead of becoming overwhelmed or bored quickly during long sessions. Implementing these tips may take

Acing the Interview

As a young professional, you know that the job market is competitive. That's why it's so important to ace your interviews and land the job you want. Here are some tips to ensure that you make a great impression in your next interview.

Research The Company You're Interviewing With

Before interviewing with a company, it is important to research and understand their mission, vision and values. Doing so will show the interviewer that you are serious about being part of the team and that you have taken the time to really understand how the company operates. By having an understanding of their goals, it also shows that you are invested in becoming part of an organization that aligns with your own beliefs about work and industry. Researching a company before an interview is essenti al for ensuring your goals properly align with theirs -- not just on paper but through action as well.

Prepare for Common Interview Questions

When preparing for an interview, it is important to think about potential questions beforehand in order to give the best responses possible. First and foremost, it's important to be yourself throughout the interview and be honest when answering any questions. It' s also important to come up with a variety of examples for commonly asked questions, such as open-ended scenarios that demonstrate your qualifications. Additionally, researching the company ahead of time can also help you craft answers that reflect how well you understand the organization, its mission, and goals. Lastly, remember that practice makes perfect and consider doing a mock interview or two i n order to gain more confidence!

Dress to impress

Dress to impress is a valuable tip in the business world and beyond. Whether you're going to a meeting with a potential employer, an interview, or speaking at an event, finding clothing that is both professional and comfortable can benefit not only your appearance, but also your overall confidence. When investing time in creating an outfit that conveys s uccess and composure, you’re sending a powerful message and allowing yourself to present the best version of yourself in front of others. With this solid foundation of preparation, anything is achievable!

Arrive Early To Your Interview

Arriving early to a job interview is key for success. It gives you the time necessary to relax and mentally prepare for the questions and topics that will be covered during the interview. Make sure not to arrive too early, as this could appear desperate or overly eager. Generally, it's best practice to arrive about 10 - 15 minutes in advance of your scheduled appointment time. This gives you a chance to settle into the environment and put your best foot forward from the start — ensuring a great job interview experience!

Be Confident and Honest During Your Interview

A job interview can feel like an intimidating situation, but it’s important to stay confident in yourself and be honest about what you have to offer. Confidence allows your potential employers to see the value of your skills and encourages them to take you seriously. It also helps make sure you are able to think through tough questions, listen well, and present yourself professionally. The best way to be comfortable in the interview is to practice ahead of time, preparing for questions so you don’t feel blindsided by anything that comes your way. Additionally, making sure to stay honest with them will allow them trust that they are hiring the best candidate and build a solid foundation for a successful business relationship – the kind that could lead you right into a job.

Follow Up After Your Interview

After an interview, it is essential to send a follow-up email to the interviewer. This allows you to thank them for their time and express your interest in the position. Additionally, a follow-up helps set you apart from other candidates. Reiterating your qualifications and passion for the opportunity can further emphasize your enthusiasm for the role. Taking the extra step and sending a thoughtful follow-up email after an interview demonstrates both professionalism and initiative, which can leave a lasting impression on hiring managers and could potentially increase your chances of landing the job.

The interview process can be daunting, but if you take the time to prepare and present yourself well, you will significantly increase your chances of landing the job. Remember to research the company beforehand, dress to impress, arrive early, and be confident and honest during the interview. Finally, don't forget to follow up after your interview with a thank you note or email. Best of luck!

Written by: Emily Bruce

feature: women in industry

As we see more diversity and welcome more members from different backgrounds, it is a cause for celebration of the careers of individuals breaking barriers and succeeding in their own rights. For this year's career handbook, we had the opportunity to speak with Demi Grand, Tye Malinowski, and Jennifer Kinzer. These women are working hard, succeeding in their careers, and inspiring others to do the same. Here's what they had to say about working in the construction industry.

DEMI GRAND MANAGER,INTERIORS

Can you share a little bit about what it is that you do and what a typical day for you is like?

I currently work for Synergy Projects based here in Edmonton and serve in the role of Manager of our Interiors group. In my role, I provide active oversight and guidance to all our Interiors team members throughout the lifecycle of our many projects. We complete a significant number of interior renovations and fit-outs each year at Synergy and for quite a range of clients—commercial, institutional, non-

profit, and others—so this market represents an important part of our business. More specific to my role, I leverage my construction experience to ensure that all of our Interiors projects are meeting their budget, schedule, and scope requirements, while at the same time ensuring we’re achieving Synergy’s high safety and quality standards. I’m also responsible for helping drive both the strategic and day-to-day business leadership of our Interiors group within the organization.

For me, a typical day involves connecting with various members of our Interiors team, including different Project Managers, Project Coordinators, and Superintendents, to provide leadership and support and ensure that our projects are staying on track. I’ll typically get involved to provide support on specific project issues or risk items, and will often connect with designers, architects, and clients to review any existing or upcoming projects they may have.

Separate from my project-specific responsibilities, I also frequently work with our Estimating and Marketing departments to help prepare, review, and issue budget and proposal submissions to our clients.

Did you always know that working in construction was what you wanted to do? How did you decide to go into your current career?

I’ve always felt like construction was always in my blood—the people I respect the most in my life are either in or have worked in the industry. My mother is an Interior Designer, my father is a Superintendent, and my grandfather retired as a Senior Project Manager. There are many different paths you can take but, for me, I wasn’t sold on either the pay scale or job tasks that come with being an Interior Designer or Architect, and I’m not great with tools or being cold (both of which made the idea of being a Superintendent less appealing), so naturally a project management role made the most sense for me. Growing up, my grandfather was always my largest inspiration, and he always called me the boss, which is what I always considered him to be. It seemed like the right fit for me to do what he did. I didn’t go right into construction, though. Straight out of high school, I went into post-secondary programs that were unrelated to the field, as both

my parents often preached about how hard the construction industry was to be in. Four years later and more than $50,000 in books and tuition in, however, I realized that just because something’s hard doesn’t mean that it’s not worthwhile or that I should steer clear of it. I still felt like construction was where my heart lay, so decided to jump in with both feet.

I don’t think it’s any secret that many women in the construction industry have felt their gender has affected the way that they are perceived or treated. Have you ever been in a situation like that? How did you handle it?

To be completely honest, and I may be an exception here, I’ve never felt like my gender has affected me differently in the construction industry than it has in other areas of my life, whether in school or prior workplaces. My experience has been overwhelmingly positive, and I’m very grateful for that.

What do you think is the best part of being a woman in the construction industry?

The construction industry is still very much a male-dominated field, so to me, it’s always gratifying to be able to help expand the definition of what it means to work in the field and create space for more women to follow suit. It’s rewarding

to be able to challenge stereotypes through the work that I do and improve and explore how we understand diversity in the workplace, particularly in a construction setting.

What advice would you give to a woman considering a career in the tech industry? What do you wish you had known?

My belief has always been that, regardless of the organization you’re working for or what industry you’re in,

everyone is there to do a job, and that approach has always served me well. The best advice I can give is to never try to pretend or act a certain way if it’s not who you naturally are—we all offer different strengths, so focus on bringing your best qualities and attributes to the table and simply do the best job you can. If you can do that, you’ll have a great start towards finding your niche and building a career that fits who you are and where you want to go.

ESTIMATOR

Can you share a little bit about what it is that you do and what a typical day for you is like?

I have been working as an estimator at Clark Builders for the past two years after

graduating the CET program. A typical day to day as an estimator is assisting and setting up new tenders that come in. This includes emails/calls between subcontractors for quotes and other unit pricing, discussions with consultants and owners on projects, completing takeoffs, setting up and adjusting the estimate book for a project and evaluating quote awards on tenders. One thing that is overlooked as an estimator is how social it can be and how this can really help you out in the industry by allowing yourself to stay connected.

Did you always know that working in construction was what you wanted to do? How did you decide to go into your current career?

I did not know that construction was the path for me until I was working as an

Accounts Payable in a smaller electrical company. In this company I was exposed to several roles in construction including both Estimating and Project Management. After this exposure, I applied for the CET program after just getting out of my finance diploma. I also began working as a labourer for more experience in the f ield over the summers while I was in school. I would highly recommend getting field experience to see and experience the construction process firsthand. This can be beneficial to allow you to visualise and construct what is on a set of prints. I would also say keep an open mind when deciding what role you want to excel in and try to get exposure in different positions to allow for a deeper understanding of each role in the industry.

I don’t think it’s any secret that many women in the construction industry have felt their gender has affected the way that they are perceived or treated. Have you ever been in a situation like that? How did you handle it? The industry has come a very long way and I am happy to see the progression everyday, I have had nothing but positive experiences with Clark Builders. . In small er companies at the beginning of my career, I was exposed to a few situations where I feel my gender played a role in my circumstances. The best advice I can give to anyone who has felt

this is to find someone you are comfortable and able to discuss about the situation. This can not only help by allowing you to talk about what you are going through but also to obtain other perspectives which can lead to a proper solution to help everyone move forward from whatever the situation was. This is usually the best-case scenario, but I know it can be a challenge as some situations are unique a nd there may not be a quick and easy answer. I would also advise reaching out to any women in the construction industry support groups or even initiating your own within an organization, association, or institute to help keep connected and learn from others. Since being out of school I have been a part of many events and seminars, many from the Edmonton Construction Association (ECA), including a WomenBuild as an example. There are also other groups including the Women Building Futures and Women in Trades and Technology. Events and seminars are a great way to learn from so many individuals who would be happy to help and share what they have learned over the years.

What do you think is the best part of being a woman in the construction industry?

I think the best part about being a woman in the construction ind ustry is being able to bring a new perspective. I did not have much prior construction

experience, which can be intimidating being in a room full of experienced industry members. But I have found that there is a comfort in using the same process and sometimes there may be a different way to go about a process that may have gotten overlooked. So being able to come in with a fresh set of eyes and present solutions to the team has been beneficial to continually progress.

What advice would you give to a woman considering a career in the tech industry? What do you wish you had known?

Keep pushing, and do not be afraid to

ask questions if you have them. It is the best way to learn even though you may feel like they are silly questions, it is still better to clarify any concerns or issues early on. It is also important to absorb all knowledge like a sponge. This is an industry where no matter how long you have been in it you will continue to learn and witness new things such as processes and products. If you are driven and can learn to understand and accept information presented to you to make the best decision, it will continue to help you exceed in the construction industry.

JENNIFER KINZER PROJECT MANAGER

Can you share a little bit about what it is that you do and what a typical day for you is like?

As a project manager, I have been working on a renovation and addition project at the University of Alberta, the I. F. Morrison Structural Lab over the past year. I am also working on the preconstruction and job start up for the Yellowhead expansion project. My responsibilities include the preparation of value engineering options, developing preconstruction budgets, assisting with design development, creating the construction schedule, constructability reviews, project execution planning, and tender document development. Depending on the stage of the project, I

manage the construction process from start to finish which includes development of quality and safety plans, material and equipment procurements, trade contractor management, scheduling, costing & forecasting, production analysis, shop drawing and submittal control, change management, progress billings, deficiency and warranty completion and turnover and commissioning coordination. Typically, I chair and organize project start-up meetings, trade meetings, owner/consultant meetings and team meetings. As a project manager it is vital to maintain excellent relationships with project stakeholders including owner, consultants, and trade contractors. I am also very involved with supervising, mentoring, coaching, and training project personnel.

Did you always know that working in construction was what you wanted to do? How did you decide to go into your current career?

When I was growing up, I never thought of being in the construction industry. However, looking back, it was always a part of my life. I took a part-time job working as a receptionist and file clerk at a construction company while I was going to school and realized it was something I was interested in. I learned about the Construction Engineering Technology program at NAIT through some of my colleagues and decided it

was something I wanted to pursue. From there, I also began working as a labourer in the field to gain some hands-on experience.

NAIT turned out be a great experience for me. As well, in terms of breaking gender barriers, it is interesting to note that I was the only female student out of approximately 60 students in that program at that time. I also had many family members involved in the construction industry and ultimately, I believe that is what lead me down this path.

I don’t think it’s any secret that many women in the construction industry have felt their gender has affected the way that they are perceived or treated. Have you ever been in a situation like that? How did you handle it?

I have been in situations where I have felt that my gender has affected the way I was perceived or treated. Througho ut these situations I have learned that communication is important, and you must address the matter right away. I don’t let things linger or build up. I have also learned that there is a lot of unconscious bias out there and sometimes the other party may not be aware of how they are making the person feel. It is important to bring awareness to your supervisor and others if this behaviour is happening. Shared experiences and talking about these

situations openly help bring resolution to these matters.

What do you think is the best part of being a woman in the construction industry?

The industry has finally realized it’s short comings and the opportunities are starting to take off and grow exponentially. There are many opportunities with a variety of career paths for women in the construction industry. Women bring a diversified perspective as well as many other soft and technical skills. The more visible we are in roles of leadership, the stronger we all are. Pavi ng the way for other women and girls who follow my lead is a huge motivator and being someone that others want to emulate in this field is inspiring.

What advice would you give to a woman considering a career in the tech industry? What do you wish you had known?

Continue to work hard, do your homework and show dedication. Hard work, tenacity and the desire to do the right thing will get you far in life. You can be the smartest person in the room, but if you are not willing to apply it, success will be challenging. You always get out what you want to put into it. There are so many opportunities, don’t be afraid to ask for it. The worst thing someone can say is “no”, but they will

have a reason. You may have wanted to go one direction but end up taking another and be okay with it. Ask for an opportunity and if it doesn’t happen, use that as your motivation to keep going. There is always something you can learn from an experience. Find out what your next best alternative solution or goal is and continue to work to where you need to be.

Do what you say you are going to do. It may be a cliché, but your word means everything. It gains trust. If you start from a place of trust, you have a better understanding of the other party. This will go a long way when dealing with supervisors, colleagues, clients, consultants and trade partners. Develop an ownership mindset. Take responsibility for your mistakes and fix them. Be accountable to yourself and others. This will go a long way to help build that trust.

Don’t be afraid to fail. Turn failure into a success by learning from it and move on. Ask questions and embrace continuous learning and education. Get exposure and experience in different types of projects such as civil, buildings (of all sizes and complexity) and industrial.

article continued on next page

MARGIE SHENDUK DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Can you share a little bit about what it is that you do and what a typical day for you is like?

As the Director of Operations at Casman my day to day responsibilities range from using my technical construction skills on job sites, in consultant meetings, or estimating costs to more business and operations responsibilities with a construction and development company such as working with the Director of Finance overseeing operating budgets and planning and the Chief of Operations on overall strategy as well as HR on recruiting and compensation. As we are also a Developer, I am also overseeing the Realty, Marketing, and Legal teams for our Condo Development Projects.

Did you always know that working in construction was what you wanted to do?

How did you decide to go into your current career?

When I was in High School I actually wanted to be a Lawyer. After two years of University, I realized my interests were much more focused on design and the built environment so I made the switch to NAIT and entered the Construction Industry right out of school in 2001. Interestin gly, my 22 years in Construction and Development have had a large focus on Contracts and Legal documents so I still get to fulfill those original interests.I am lucky that I found an industry I was passionate about since day one of my career.

I don’t think it’s any secret that many women in the construction industry have felt their gender has affected the way that they are perceived or treated. Have you ev er been in a situation like that? How did you handle it?

Internally at CASMAN it has never been a factor. In my earlier years in the industry I was vary aware of being one of the only women in meetings, on job sites, and working in construction in general. I was also very young for the positions that I was in so sometimes I had to battle 2 biases (age and gender) with Customers and Tradespeople. I’ve never m ade an issue of it and find that my abilities and experience will speak for themselves.

feature: where are they now?

ASHLEY WILKIE ESTIMATOR

Is there anything you would have wished you asked your instructors while you were still at school? Each Instructor I had throughout my time at NAIT provided excellent knowled ge, experience, and support. I have always been a proactive person, asking questions as they come to my head, and because of that there are no outstanding questions I wished I would have asked. However, as a word of advice, if there is a question you have, ask it!

When you think back on everything that you learned at NAIT, what was one of the most valuable things you learned during your time?

For myself, I entered the Con Eng. program with a Diploma in Human Resources and no experience in construction at all. The most valuable thing I learnt during my time is to have patience, and this has also transferred into my career. If you are entering into the program with or without previous experience in the industry, patience is key when learning new concepts. The courses were all delivered well by the instructors, as some of them would even put in extra time for those who needed it. Be patient, be curious, and understand that each project you work on will bring a new experience, a new challenge, and a new reward.

If you could do your CON ENG diploma over again, is there anything you would have done differently?

My time as a Con. Eng. student held a very positive impact on my life. Not only did it le ad me to where I am today, but throughout my first and second year I took part on the Student Council as a volunteer and as the Vice President respectfully, which lead to creating several lasting friendships and industry connections.

What is your best memory of the CON Eng. program?

There are several great memories to choose from, but I think the best memory I have is from Con. Eng. would be the Industry Night. This was and still is a great opportunity to connect with industry professionals, see what is out there for you, and have a bit of practice for interviews!

What advice would you give to the first-year students, is that any different than the advice you'd give to the second-year students?

Keep learning new skills, keep educating yourself, keep questioning why a nd how, keep improving yourself, but most of all keep going. Build and continue to grow your connections with your classmates and those around you, as you will soon realize how connected everyone in the industry is! Get involved, try new things, be present, and look forward to the future.

Considering the pace of the program, is there anything you would suggest to help keep students focused?

There are many tools to consider that can aid in staying focused and engaged in your studies. A few key habits that kept me focused as a student and have also assisted in my career include being organized, setting a plan and sticking to

it, avoiding multitasking, taking notes during meetings or conversations, creating a space where you are comfortable to work, getting enough sleep, keeping not only your mind but your body active with physical activity, and understanding that you are ultimately responsible for your own work.

Would you recommend the Con Eng. program to students still considering their career path?

Most definitely! The Co n. Eng. program provides a great foundation. Whether you are interested in a career in the construction industry or considering it. There are multiple different avenues the program can take you from project coordinating, scheduling, safety, estimating, and more!

What are your thoughts on timemanagement, any tips?

Time management is a very important skill to have in your personal and professional life. Tim e management skills have a powerful effect on the quality of your decisions, your stress levels, and ultimately the outcome of your task. Preparing lists, prioritizing tasks with dates and times for completion, sticking to your schedule, taking breaks, and of course, getting

enough sleep. These are all ways to keep on top of your time management.

Would you ever consider mentoring a CON Eng. Grad? Are you a member of the Con Eng LinkedIn Mentorships Group?

I am currently a member of the Con End LinkedIn Mentorship Group and would be more than happy to mentor a new Con. Eng. Grad.

What would be the most valuable behavioral and personality traits a con Eng. student should establish to be a valued candidate for a role?

The most valuable behavi oral and personality traits a Con. Eng. student can establish to be a valued candidate are positive attitude, willingness to learn, open to communicate, motivated to work in a team, having integrity, and adaptability.

In the teams you've been a part of, what makes you want to work with someone again?

I enjoy working with those who have clear goals and plans on how to attain those goals, those who communicat e openly with the team as well as listen to others, and those who have strong leadership skills but also fulfill their own tasks.

There is a lot of group work in the CON ENG program, any suggestions on creating an effective team? or

suggestions on how to make it more productive?

Begin with the end in mind. Always understand what the goal or outcome is that you and your team are trying to achieve. Every team you will be a part of will have members on it who have different experiences, knowledge, and ideas, a huge part of being successful as a team is to listen to one another. Consider factors such as what are your team member’s strengths, what your team members enjoy doing, and how your team members want to challenge themselves. When you understand what the goal is, what strengths your team has, and how as a team you will concur challenges, you can create an effective team.

What are some accomplishments you've achieved?

After graduating Con. Eng. I was brought onto the Clark Builders’ Estimating team as a Junior Estimator, at my fourth year I celebrated promotion to Estimator. Through those four years I lead and assisted on multiple project awards which consisted of a vast variety in size and type, some interesting projects would include numerous large-scale ground mount solar systems in remote locations, the recently completed Diwan Pavilion at the Aga Khan Garden, currently

under construction Red Deer Justice Centre which will include 16 courtrooms and the new Gene Zwozdesky Centre (Norwood Redevelopment Project) in Edmonton! For the year 2023, I will also be on the Professional Estimating Group board through the Edmonton Construction Association.

From some of the peers in your graduating class, can you list some different career paths people went down?

The most common career paths my graduating class took were working for Sub Contractors, General Contractors, and Developers as Project Coordinators, Project Managers, and Estimators. A few class members started their career path off in Consulting Firms as well assisting with document creation and distribution and others joined into a Partnership position of a family company!

talking to my teachers after class and asking a lot of questions. Something we are lucky to do with smaller class sizes.

When you think back on everything that you learned at NAIT, what was one of the most valuable things you learned during your time?

SULLIVAN

SR. PROJECT COORDINATOR

Is there anything you would have wished you asked your instructors while you were still at school?

I cannot think of anything. I am someone who asks a lot of questions (maybe too many at times). I took advantage of

Networking is a big part of this industry. Be open to meeting people and pushing outside of your comfort zone if you are a little more introverted.

Be humble with what you may already know and be willing to learn from your teachers and classmates (a lot come from trade backgrounds) and have information to offer.

Time management and organization are important and valuable skills to have and develop.

If you could do your CON ENG diploma over again, is there anything you would have done differently?

No, I don’t think so. I am happy with my time and outcome in the program.

What is your best memory of the CON Eng. program?

Probably the friends I made. We spent a lot of time together and would go bowling during breaks and hang out after school. I made a lot of good friends that I am still in touch with today.

What advice would you g ive to the first-year students, is that any different than the advice you'd give to the second-year students?

Take in all the information you can and ask a lot of questions. Google is your friend but so are your teachers. There were a lot of things I would write down during class with a question mark beside it and later ask to better understand. Everyone should attend industry night. It is a great place to meet industry people and network. Even if you have a job lined up already, go in willing to meet people and talk. You never know whom you will cross paths with when you work and it is great to have a connection. The only other advice I have for the first years is to get a summer job in the industry if you can. It opens many doors and you will gain knowledge, even in a 3 month period.

there anything you would suggest to help keep students focused?

It is a two-year grind; however, it goes by quickly. It’s important to get through it with your best foot forward and if that means sacrificing some social events to study and focus, I recommend it. Also, if you are not a coffee drinker, I recommend starting.

Would you recommend the Con Eng. program to students still considering their caree r path?

I would recommend they shadow someone from the industry and attend the open houses to learn more about the program and what jobs can come from it. It is not an easy program and I think if you don’t have the passion for it, it will be even harder. I did that before applying and it solidified my decision. With that said, this program is terrific and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in going d own the project management or estimating route.

What is the most interesting or important thing you learned coming out of the program?

Considering the pace of the program, is

This is a tough one! I learned so much from the program that was very relevant and useful to realworld work. I think the Contract Law course is very valuable and teaches us to read and write in a different “language”. It is important to know

your contracts whether with your client or subcontractor/supplier and what those include and exclude.

What are your thoughts on time management? Any tips?

I live off lists and find they help me prioritize. It is easy to get overwhelmed with tasks and “to-do’s” but if you organize what needs immediate attention and start that way it really helps. It is important to balance a lot and the best advice is to stay organized.

Would you e ver consider mentoring a CON Eng. Grad? Are you a member of the Con Eng LinkedIn Mentorships Group?

Yes I am in that group. I think I would be open to being a mentor once I learn more about what that looks like.

What would be the most valuable behavioral and personality traits a con Eng. student should establish to be a valued candidate for a role. Be open to learning, ask questions when you don’t know something, be professional always (even when we are tested), and have open and effective communication.

In the teams you've been a part of, what makes you want to work with someone again?

I like working with people I can learn from. I am still early in my career and any new information or skills I can absorb is great. I also enjoy working with people

who are respectful to others, whether that’s our own forces or subtrades. I have been lucky to work with a lot of great people so far in my career.

There is a lot of group work in the CON ENG program, any suggestions on creating an effective team? Or suggestions on how to make it more productive? Assign roles and distribute your workload. Ask everyone what area they are most comfortable taking on as well. It is important to also let your teammates know if they or you are struggling on something, it is OK to ask and lean on each other for support. After all, you want the best grade possible. Also, give yourselves timelines. For example if your assignment is due on Wednesday, have it done by Monday so you can collab and review before handing it in.

What are some accomplishments you've achieved in your c areer?

I am still working towards some bigger achievements, but I have gotten great opportunities to work on big projects such as the BC Hydro Site C and the Kearl Lake Expansion project. I am only two years into the commercial world but have gotten great experience working on building 5 new car washes for Mint

Smartwash and now transitioned to working (and living) in Kelowna, BC.

From some of the peers of your graduating class, can you list some different career paths people went down?

A lot went down the project management (whether at a general contractor or subcontractor) path but some have gone

into estimating, real estate, project management (not in the construction industry), and environmental management.

ZACH HUDSON BUILDING SCIENCE & RESTORATION TECHNOLOGGIST

Is there anything you would have wished you asked your instructors while you were still at school?

I don’t recall having any regrets about unasked questions while in school, but with the perspective I have now, I would have inquired for more information about authorities having jurisdiction.

When you think back on everything that you learned at NAIT, what was one of the most valuable things you learned during your time?

When I look back on applicable skills that I use regularly, I think the theme of attention to detail, exactnes s in creating and filing documents, and the organization of time and self that it takes to succeed in the program is useful to me daily and universally applicable wherever the other graduates end up.

If you could do your CON ENG diploma over again, is there anything you would have done differently?

I would have got a locker in a more central location. Established and organized personal electronic file nomen clature early then renamed documents to submit. Checked moodle more often. Never used Microsoft Onenote and kept everything PDF. Learned to use a PDF editor early. And I would have backed-up my computer to a hard drive often.

What is your best memory of the CON Eng. pr ogram?

My best social memories are of the bridge-building activity and student club bowling, my best academic memories are of becoming friends with those classmates I worked on projects with.

What advice would you give to the first-year students, is that any different than the advice you'd give to the second-year students?

To first year students I would say, spend some time and energy meeting and establish ing relationships with others in the program and industry. Meet people in your class, in your year, mingle with second years if you can manage it, talk with your teachers, and meet industry players.

To second year students I would say stay organized and use the resources you have been given. You have notes from first year, moodle, textbooks, teachers, and each other as great resources. You are smart enough t o do the first year, take courage that you’re up to the challenge of the second year.

Considering the pace of the program, is there anything you would suggest to help keep students focused?

It may sound counterintuitive but good sleep habits, exercise routine, and deliberate planned time off to relax. You know the demands of the program; make sure you’re giving yourself the best shot to meet them. Study c ycles that include

breaks to exercise, eat, and generally take care of yourself, in my opinion, allow you to come back and remain productive. I think the woodchopping analogy is a good one. Sharpening the axe, now and then, will allow you to keep chopping wood effectively. A dull axe is more dangerous and less effective. Don’t take too much time away from your work, but do take care of yourself.

Would you recommend the Con Eng. program to students still considering their career path?

As long as their career desires are construction related, yes. It’s a big industry. You’ll find somewhere to be if you like construction management.

What is the most interesting or important thing you learned coming out of the program?

No one thing stands out. It’s probably a set of skills, something related to the confidence to go find an an swer for yourself. The program informs you of many resources and gives you general skills to utilize in solving real-world problems.

What are your thoughts on time management? Any tips?

This is highly individual but I’ll weigh in. I think this is one of the most important and untaught skills there is. Con Eng is unforgiving to those who haven’t given this thought.

Number one tip is to use a calendar if you’re not already. You’re an adult, you should know when things are. Most people won’t be able to remember all their tasks and commitments. Even if you could, you could be using that mental real-estate for something else.

If your savvy, a digital calendar combined with a task manager would be my recommendation. Examples are Outlook and MS to-do or Google Calendar and Google tasks. These are great because they also incorporate email. If you like your time management to be analog then bullet jo urnal or Daytimer is the way to go in my opinion. Put apps on your phone or carry your book with you and be the person who inputs new things as soon as a new event or task appears in your life. Plan for 10 mins a night. Input new tasks from the current day that you missed and look ahead to the next day or two. As with any skill this comes with time so set your expectations low enough that you can improve in crementally, but high enough to make some change and form a new habit.

Would you ever consider mentoring a CON Eng. Grad? Are you a member of the Con Eng LinkedIn Mentorships Group? I would. I currently am not.

What would be the most valuable behavioral and personality traits a con Eng. student should establish to be a valued candidate for a role?

That would depend on what role you seek. I think in general people expect you to be mentally engaged and process information precisely and effectively. Whether the information input is numbers, scheduling, networking with people, or paperwork you have to output something meaningful to add value. A high capacity for attentiveness and organization would help in most of those areas. See my previous answers o n valuable lessons learned and time management.

In the teams you've been a part of, what makes you want to work with someone again?

When they take full responsibility for themselves and everything they can control.

When they do what is in their power to meet the expectations that were set out at the beginning.

When they are clear, concise, and honest in their communication and dealings.

Ownership of problems that arise in the work.

There is a lot of group work in the CON ENG program, any suggestions on creating an effective team? or suggestions on how to make it more productive?

Meet a lot of people. For some it takes a bit of courage, but remember not very many people will dislike you

club events 2022-2023

The Construction Engineering Technology Student Club members act as emissaries for our program, connecting students with other students, alumni, and industry professionals to establish meaningful and valuable relationships. These relationships help students develop wider networks and better understand the construction industry and the opportunities available. To facilitate our goal to provide these connections, our club plans social events and activities, various fundraisers, and professional development opportunities that engage our program students, staff, and industry professionals. We also encourage our members to participate actively in their community with our collaborative efforts to participate in charitable activities. Highlighted below and on the next few pages are some of our cumulative efforts in the form of events and activities that have taken place during the fall 2022 semester. We hope to continue the efforts into the Winter 2023 semester and look forward to bringing everyone together for more fun.

pub at the club

Kicking off the beginning of the year, we partnered with NAITSA to host a club at the pub event mixer for students in the Construction Engineering Technology Student Club. It was a great networking event, during which we participated in some icebreakers games, enjoyed good food and got to know each other better.

team building

Trivia, Jeopardy, Murder Mystery, Human Chain Game, and a few other lunchtime events have been hosted over the semester to encourage students to build relationships, have some fun and de-stress over a quick lunchtime rendezvous.

Dodgeball

An excellent time was had by staff and students as we had the battle of the semester in a competitive dodgeball tournament. We even had a t-rex join in on the fun and managed to raise over 100 lbs of food for the NAITSA food centre and help students in need at our school.

Silent Auction

This year’s silent auction beneficiary was the Edmonton Humane Society. The society connects animals and people through advocacy, education, and community engagement, but it costs approximately 7 million dollars to keep the society operational for one year. About 40% of these funds are generated through donations and fundraisers by supporters. This year's auction raised over $1300 in support of the Edmonton Humane Society.

At Synergy Projects, we’re proud to support NAIT’s Construction Engineering Technology (CET) program. Our firm wouldn’t be what it is today without the many students who’ve come through this program successfully to play an essential role in our success. Today, those former students are our estimators, our project managers, and our senior leaders—and they’ve helped us become a leading construction firm in the markets we serve. So if you’re ready for that next step—to hone your skills, challenge yourself, find your next opportunity—we want to hear from you. You’re exactly who we’re looking for.

synergybuilds.com

Bowling night

With funding from NAITSA, our club was able to take advantage of a great bowling night at Plaza Bowling Co. We had nearly 40 students attend the evening event where we all enjoyed pizza, appetizers and some great games of bowling. For

the admission portion of their ticket, club members were asked to donate food or money to be put towards food donations. After a big shop was done with all the funds raised, we were proud to have raise nearly 600lbs of food!

legacy donation

end event celebration due to the pandemic. They instead chose to donate their fundraising efforts to our year as a legacy donation for to Habitat for Humanity. We're so proud to feature this effort of nearly $6000 raised for the local charity.

Interview feature: Habitat for Humanity

We are so grateful and humbled by the work Habitat for Humanity Edmonton does for our Community. Amber Lechambre, a NAIT Alumni and the Vice President of Sustainability and Impact at Habitat for Humanity Edmonton, sat down with us to tell us more on about this impactful company.

Tell me about what problem Habitat for Humanity – Edmonton is hoping to positively impact.

Habitat for Humanity brings communities together to help families build strength, stability, and independence. We help families transition from living from paycheque to paycheque to living in stability with a mortgage empowers them to save for the future through equitybuilding. Families participate in the process not only through their monthly mortgage payments, but by contributing 500 volunteer hours as part of their partnership with us. Basically, we help families bridge the gap between renting and owning through affordable home ownership.

Can you tell me about a specific person who has used this program or describe the typical family that benefits from your program?

Jessica and Jordan Boyd were a couple in

need of a “hand up” from Habitat. They tell their story better than I do (https://youtu.be/5bio-stmBMQ).

When did you first hear about Habitat for Humanity?

Like many others, I have been aware of Habitat for Humanity for many years, but it was often through the lens of the organization’s international work. It wasn’t until a few years ago that I learned that Edmonton has its own local Habitat affiliate that has served over 800 families throughout northern Alberta by providing them with access to affordable homeownership.

What attracted you to this cause?

Habitat provides foundational and generational changes in the lives of families. A home you can afford that is helping you build equity for the future has a dramatic impact on how you live your life. I wanted to be part of providing

The Boyd Family, Photo Provided with Publishing Permission from Habitat for Humanity Edmonton

this type of change.

What inspires you?

I am inspired every day by Habitat’s many supporters, which are made up of individuals, businesses, students, and community groups. They give their time, talent, and financial resources to make this program possible for so many families. Our work would also not be possible without nearly 100 Habitat Edmonton employees who are dedicated to our cause and the people we serve. And I am inspired by the families in our program. Despite facing the rising cost of living on limited incomes, they work hard to maintain their homes in the interest of building equity and securing more options, opportunities, and possibilities for themselves and their children in the future.

What was the biggest challenge you’ve faced while working for Habitat for Humanity? What did you do to try to solve this challenge?

I started with Habitat in early 2020 at the beginning of the pandemic, when we had to temporarily close our stores and pivot to a remote work environment. Like so many companies we were navigating unfamiliar waters and had to find ways to make sure we were operating safely. Our team worked hard and made sacrifices in order to continue to deliver on our mission, and it truly was a great example of doing what is right for the common good.

What do you think other people should know about this organization?

The Buy Back program is huge. As we work towards being sustainable, we will be developing more programs so that

donor dollars go towards building homes and serving families. Some people do not know that we operate a social enterprise that contributes funds for our charity. The Habitat ReSto re accepts donations of new and gently-used building materials, furniture, appliances, and more, and sells them to the general public at a discounted rate. All proceeds are used to fund the Habitat program.

How has Habitat for Humanity changed you?

Working for Habitat is my first job in the non-profit sector and I consider it a privilege to use my experience to serve families as opposed to shareholders. The impact we create can be seen every day, and it's great motivation for our team to work hard and innovate so that we can see even more families achieve affordable home ownership.

Is there anything else you would like to share with me?

I am actually a NAIT graduate myself (Marketing ’03) and I know that the hands-on education that I received helped shaped me into the resourceful and community-minded leader t hat I am today. I am excited by all that will be accomplished by Ooks in the future!

Are there any questions I should have asked you, but did not?

For more information about how to become involved in Habitat for Humanity, visit HFH.org.

Thank You, Industry Members!

On behalf of the Construction Engineering Technology Student Club and Program, we would like to extend a sincere thank you to all of the industry members who have supported us. Your generosity is very much appreciated. We are truly grateful for your support and mentorships. We wouldn't be able to do what we do without your support and the generous contributions made over the years. Your ongoing commitment means so much to us, and we are deeply grateful. Thank you, industry members!