Estimating Intern, Sahara Monteiro, shares how her summer at SPC provided a deeper understanding of the estimating profession, the importance of communication, and the people who make construction projects successful.
For many engineering students, their primary exposure to different concepts comes through lectures, textbooks, and broad overviews of various disciplines, especially during their first years of college. As an incoming sophomore at Penn State University and SPC Estimating Intern, Sahara Monteiro spent her freshman year learning about different branches of engineering. However, she says it wasn't until her internship that she gained a deeper understanding of how those concepts are applied in the real world.
Through her experience at SPC, Sahara has learned not only the technical side of construction, but also the countless factors that influence a project behind the scenes. Her internship has provided valuable insight into the processes, challenges, and decision-making that are often only visible in real-world scenarios.
Working in the Estimating Department, Sahara says one of her biggest takeaways has been learning about a role that she describes as "the backbone of every job."
Sahara's daily responsibilities include performing takeoffs for projects that are being bid. The takeoff process involves reviewing project drawings and specifications to identify, measure, and quantify the materials, labor, and equipment required to complete a job. As projects move closer to bid time, she also assists estimators with subcontractor outreach, contacting trade partners to determine whether they will submit bids for various project scopes.
Of all her responsibilities, subcontractor outreach has become her favorite part of the internship.
"While some people might not agree, I love getting to call subcontractors. It's helped me learn how to effectively communicate with others. Being able to communicate what you need is an important life skill and not being able to do that would only limit you in the workplace."
Sahara was initially drawn to the construction industry because of her family, particularly her father, who has worked in the industry throughout her life. Today, she says the relationships and sense of community within construction remain her favorite aspects of the field.
"When you've been around this industry and the people who work in it, you see that it's such a close-knit group. No matter where you go, you'll always run into people you know. That's the main reason I chose to stay in construction, for the family aspect."
At SPC, Sahara says her favorite part of the company has been the people she works with every day. The team has made her internship experience both enjoyable and educational, always taking the time to answer questions, provide guidance, and share their knowledge of the construction industry and the estimating process.
Sahara encourages future interns to take advantage of those opportunities and build relationships with the people around them.
"I would tell future interns to get involved with people, especially within their department, and ask them about their jobs and what exactly they do. Most of the time, people love to explain their work, which is a great opportunity to network and learn more about the different aspects of the industry you could pursue."
As she prepares to begin her sophomore year at Penn State, Sahara reflects on her summer at SPC with gratitude. The internship has given her a behind-the-scenes look at construction that goes far beyond what can be learned in a classroom. She leaves the experience with a stronger understanding of infrastructure projects, a greater appreciation for the estimating profession, and valuable technical and communication skills that will benefit her throughout her career.
We have been fortunate to have Sahara as part of the Estimating Department this summer, and we look forward to seeing all she accomplishes in the years ahead.
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