Building Futures: The Crain Construction Internship Experience
There is almost nothing more important than nurturing the next generation of leaders, and that’s also true in the field of commercial construction. Our customized internship program is a testament to our commitment, offering students a unique blend of hands-on learning and personalized mentorship.
Each summer, we select interns based on the specific requirements of our current projects, ensuring they receive relevant and meaningful work experience. Whether assisting project managers in the office or taking on tasks in the field, our interns gain a comprehensive understanding of the commercial construction process. By focusing on a single project throughout their two-month internship, our interns develop a deep and focused expertise.
The Value of Internships
Internships at Crain Construction are designed to be mutually beneficial. They provide students with invaluable real-world experience while allowing us to identify and cultivate future talent. Interns who join our team have the opportunity to see if our company is the right fit for them, just as we evaluate their potential for a long-term role. This approach ensures a seamless transition from intern to full-time employee, with interns already familiar with our culture and operations.
Additionally, our internship program offers growth opportunities for our current staff. By mentoring interns, our project engineers and assistant project managers enhance their leadership and teaching skills. This experience is crucial for their professional development and contributes to a collaborative and supportive culture at Crain.
Success Stories: From Intern to Full-Time
Our internship program often serves as a stepping stone to a full-time career at Crain Construction. Spencer Rankin’s journey is a prime example. Starting as an intern, Spencer quickly demonstrated his capability and dedication. His involvement in managing subcontractors and on-site work during his internship led to a full-time position in December 2022. Spencer now plays a vital role in our Crestmoor project, continuously expanding his skills in project management.
Meet Our 2024 Intern
Hailing from Hendersonville, TN, Lincoln Mocko is a 22-year-old senior at Western Kentucky University. Lincoln joined Crain Construction following a recommendation from Chloe Rawls and a keen interest in the company’s impressive project portfolio. Lincoln spent the summer on-site at a historic project for Crain, The Crestmoor. The luxury senior living facility is one of the largest projects in Crain’s 90-year history. Lincoln has been instrumental in various tasks, from completing submittals and RFIs to mapping the building with a 360 camera and coordinating with superintendents.
Lincoln aspires to build a career as a project engineer in Nashville, with ambitions to progress to assistant project manager and eventually project manager. The experience and skills he’s gained at Crain have built a solid foundation for these goals, demonstrating the importance of confidence, resilience, and continuous learning in the construction industry.
For students and recent graduates considering an internship in commercial construction, Lincoln offers this advice, “Embrace new experiences with confidence. Don’t fear failure; it’s a crucial part of learning and growth. Crain is an excellent place to start your career, thanks to the supportive team that guides you every step of the way.”
An Internship at Crain Construction
Every year, Crain participates in career fairs at UT Knoxville, MTSU, and Auburn, where we connect with potential interns. We’re always happy to speak to anyone interested in our internship program. If you’re passionate about construction and eager to learn, feel free to reach out to us directly at jlamb@crainconstructioninc.com.
