2016 PNC Construction Club Networking Luncheon a Success

2016 PNC Construction Club Networking Luncheon a Success

The Purdue University North Central Construction Club recently hosted its second annual networking luncheon and successfully introduced some of the most successful general contractors, engineers, architects and builders in Northwest Indiana and Chicagoland to Purdue North Central and Calumet students majoring in Construction Engineering, Management Technology, Civil Engineering and other areas of engineering and technology.

The event included a career fair with several companies actively recruiting interns and employees. Students had the opportunity to present their resumes, speak to company representatives, ask questions and gather information.

“This is a great way for students to get together with potential employers in a more casual atmosphere than a traditional job interview,” said Construction Club President Robert Kennedy, a Construction Engineering and Management Technology major.

Participating companies included” Berglund Construction Inc., Burling Builders Inc., Career Center at PNC, Construction Advancement Foundation, D.A Dodd Inc., Haas & Associates, Larson-Danielson Construction Company Inc., NIES Engineering Inc., Old Veteran Construction Inc., Powers and Sons Construction, Tonn and Blank Construction and Ziolkowski Construction Inc.

Students sat with the professionals during lunch, presenting a unique opportunity to chat and get to know one another. Conversations did not necessarily center on academics or work. The professionals were happy to share their insights into what employers look for when hiring and give some insight into the job market and the skills required for the jobs their companies offer.

“This is a nice opportunity for us to meet prospective employees,” said Amanda Roe of Burling Builders, who left with a number of quality resumes. “Many of our employees are Purdue alumni. We know that Purdue graduates are smart, talented individuals.”

Tony Oss, a Larson-Danielson project development manager, is a Purdue graduate. The company owners are Purdue alumni, as are most employees.

“I am here to support the program and to find new employees,” he said. “This is a great event.”

PNC student Justin Rhinefield, a Construction Engineering and Management Technology major, attended the event to network, hoping to get some leads on a job.

“It’s much easier to connect with someone with a face-to-face conversation, rather than sending in a resume,” he said.

Jeremy Smith, also a Construction Engineering and Management Technology major, will graduate in May.

“I’m ready to get started with my career,” he said. “I made a few connections. This was really helpful.”

Students visiting the Powers and Sons table were greeted by PNC alumna Cassie Carlson. She earned her degree in Communication and serves as Powers and Sons marketing coordinator. During the luncheon, Carlson cheerfully welcomed PNC students, spoke about the opportunities offered by Powers and Sons and collected resumes. Construction Club President Kennedy currently works for Powers and Sons as well.

The Construction Club has a close relationship with the La Porte County Habitat for Humanity. The luncheon raised more than $3,500 that will help fund the cost of the next Habitat for Humanity home in La Porte County.

Bob Long, executive director of La Porte County Habitat for Humanity, was the keynote speaker. He discussed how Habitat helps to make home ownership possible for area families and the vital role that the community plays in the organization’s success.

The PNC Construction Club has been a campus fixture for more than 25 years. The club is dedicated to helping out in the community and connecting students to industry professionals. Club members participate in the Regional Construction Management Competition at the International Builders Show and the National Association of Home Builders Regional Construction Management Competition.

Members volunteer to help with Habitat for Humanity and other community projects that help those in need rebuild, repair and restore their homes and properties.

Kennedy noted that PNC students learn construction fundamentals, management, estimating, scheduling, materials, strengths, soils, concrete, structural calculations, surveying and do architecture design utilizing the latest architectural software.

“I am confident that the employers successfully connected with some well-rounded, educated individuals whom will become great assets to their organizations,” said Kennedy.

Information about the PNC Construction Club is available at http://pnc-constructionclub.weebly.com/