Field Intern, Shaun Sander shares how a second summer with SPC Construction has provided deeper insight into project execution, engineering, and the importance of collaboration in the field.
Back for his second summer with SPC Construction, Shaun Sander continues his role as a Field Engineer Intern on the Bay Park WTP Hot & Chilled Water Piping Project in Nassau County, NY. With experience from his first internship behind him, Shaun is expanding his skills in the field and gaining a deeper understanding of the engineering and construction processes that bring complex infrastructure projects to life.
Currently pursuing both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering at Binghamton University, Shaun has returned to the project he supported last summer with the opportunity to experience the later stages of the project. As construction nears completion, he has gained valuable insight into how a project progresses from initial activities through final phases while developing a greater appreciation for the critical role engineers play throughout the project lifecycle.
The Bay Park Piping Project involves the installation of a pre-engineered permanent piping system designed to heat and cool various buildings throughout the facility. This large-scale infrastructure project has provided Shaun with the opportunity to see firsthand the difference between engineering concepts taught in the classroom and their real-world application.
“The on-the-job and in the field experience is completely different to what is taught in school,” Shaun explained. “Seeing the project come together in front of your eyes is something that cannot be translated in a classroom setting and what you can learn from the field management and craft labor is key to developing a better understanding of the construction industry.”
At the end of last summer, Shaun reflected on the importance of the relationships he had built during his time on the project, relationships he was grateful to continue strengthening this year. In fact, the people he works with remain his favorite part of the job.
“My favorite part of the job is the people in the field. We have a great team at the Bay Park field office and a great group of foremen that help me learn more about the activities going on in the field.”
Shaun’s Project Manager, Christina Marino, describes him as a valuable member of the team.
“It has been a privilege to have Shaun on our team for a second summer,” says Christina. “He brings a positive attitude to everything he does, is always eager to learn, and never hesitates to take on new challenges. It has been wonderful watching him continue to grow his skills and gain hands-on experience exploring the construction side of engineering. Shaun's dedication, curiosity, and strong work ethic will undoubtedly take him far, and I am excited to see all that he accomplishes in the future.”
As part of his internship experience, Shaun has been able to take on a variety of responsibilities including tracking production rates and labor activities, drafting RFIs and submittals, organizing invoices and packing slips, documenting field conditions, and verifying craft labor payroll. These tasks are essential to maintaining the smooth operation and progress of the project.
Shaun says his time with SPC has strengthened his confidence in understanding the many facets of a general contractor’s operations while helping him further develop his technical skill set such as reading and interpreting contract drawings and specifications.
Shaun also emphasizes importance of asking questions and communicating effectively on the jobsite. He has gained a greater appreciation for the critical role communication plays in keeping projects running successfully.
When asked what advice he would give to future interns, Shaun said:
“Show up to work with a willingness to take on any task that is asked of you, even if you don’t know where to start. These are the best opportunities to learn and there are will always be people to help with any questions you may have.”
We have been incredibly fortunate to have Shaun begin his career in heavy construction with SPC, and we are excited to see where his career takes him next!
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