UNI Construction management students bent conduit during the presentation.
Commonwealth Electric Company of the Midwest’s Omaha, NE, team had the pleasure of speaking to 15 students in Robert Harmon’s Construction Management class at the University of Northern Iowa (UNI).
Senior Project Manager Dan Cahalan and Project Managers Aidan Colyer and Justin Hess each brought their unique expertise and experience to the classroom, providing the students with invaluable insights into the construction management industry.
The session began with an introduction to Commonwealth, highlighting the company’s extensive capabilities in the electrical construction industry. The students learned about Commonwealth’s commitment to excellence, history, core values, and services offered.
Dan shared his experiences and responsibilities in managing complex projects. He explained the importance of overseeing multiple project managers, ensuring project safety, managing change orders, cash flow, labor production, and risk. His insights provided the students with a clear understanding of the strategic and operational aspects of senior project management.
Justin and Aidan discussed the role of a project manager, emphasizing the importance of project estimation, engineering, jobsite field operations, and safety management. They highlighted the need for strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to foster professional relationships with owners, general contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers.
Aidan also shared his journey from being an intern to becoming a full-time employee at Commonwealth. He discussed the internship program’s structure, which includes mentorship, hands-on experience, and professional development opportunities. His story inspired the students, showing them the potential career paths available within the company.
The engagement was not just about lectures; it included a hands-on portion that allowed the students to interact with real-world materials and tools:
Different Size Wire: Students had the opportunity to look at and hold various sizes of wire, understanding their applications and importance in electrical installations.
Prefab Assemblies: They explored different prefab assemblies, learning how these pre-constructed components can streamline construction processes and enhance efficiency.
Conduit Bending: The students got to bend conduit using conduit benders, gaining practical skills that are essential in the field of construction management.
“Having industry professionals like those from Commonwealth Electric Company of the Midwest speak to our students is invaluable. It bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world application, providing our students with practical insights and hands-on experience that are crucial for their future careers in construction management.””
–Robert Harmon, P.E., Assistant Professor of Practice, University of Northern Iowa
