SMSU: SMSU internship program builds future construction professionals

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Scott Amos is professor and head of the department of industrial management at Southwest Missouri State University.|ret||ret||tab|

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SMSU proudly supports the 2002 Salute to Construction theme of "Building Communities, Careers and Lives." |ret||ret||tab|

The management of construction has changed and expanded dramatically in the 20th century. |ret||ret||tab|

These changes have resulted in increased responsibilities and obligations for the professional constructor. |ret||ret||tab|

The professional constructor is an individual who commits to serve the construction industry in a professional and ethical manner, and engages in the continued development of his/her skills and education to meet increasing industry challenges and changes.|ret||ret||tab|

As one of the four largest contributors to the Gross National Product and reputedly the nation's largest employer, construction is supported by three groups: the design professionals, such as architects and engineers; the constructor professionals, to include builders and contractors; and the skilled and unskilled building trades.|ret||ret||tab|

It is the education of the professional constructor, the center of this triad, that assumes actual responsibility for the construction, that is being addressed by the recently revamped department of industrial management at SMSU. |ret||ret||tab|

The profession of constructor includes job titles such as project manager, general superintendent, project executive, operations manager, construction manager and CEO.|ret||ret||tab|

Because these professionals carry the final burden of responsibility, they need the very best education possible. |ret||ret||tab|

In an effort to recognize the unique technical and managerial knowledge and skills required in this challenging business environment, SMSU has realigned the construction management program with the College of Business Administration to emphasize the growing importance of the management function.|ret||ret||tab|

With the stated mission of "Preparing technically oriented professionals to provide leadership in construction and manufacturing enterprises through nationally accredited undergraduate industrial management/technology programs," and a redefined vision for the development and advancement of construction education, the construction management program has grown 50 percent over the last two years. |ret||ret||tab|

In addition, the required bodies of knowledge for the American Institute of Constructors certification, which qualifies individuals through education, experience and examination for the professional designations of Associate Constructor and Certified Professional Constructor, have been integrated into the curriculum. |ret||ret||tab|

Recognizing the needs of the industry, certificates and graduate education opportunities have also been developed to support preparation of advanced practice professionals for management positions in industry, business and public service.|ret||ret||tab|

With a clear vision of its responsibility to the public as it seeks to best serve the construction profession and the student, the faculty and staff of the department of industrial management at SMSU are dedicated to this goal of quality education and committed to the principle of balanced input, professional, educator and public interest. |ret||ret||tab|

Guidance and support for this endeavor comes directly from a Construction Industry Advisory Board, comprised of construction professionals from throughout the state who are committed to serving the construction industry in a professional and ethical manner.|ret||ret||tab|

A key element of this shared vision between education and industry is the requirement for a professional internship. |ret||ret||tab|

The internship experience enhances classroom learning with a related, meaningful work experience. Students are expected to be productive employees during their internships. |ret||ret||tab|

During the internship, which is typically completed during the summer preceding graduation, the students seek exposure to multiple construction management processes. |ret||ret||tab|

In a recent national study it was found that there were more than 1,000 unfilled jobs requiring qualified graduates of construction management programs. |ret||ret||tab|

Participating employers benefit from early access to a highly qualified pool of candidates, and positive internship experiences have often resulted in the student's permanent employment by the sponsoring company following graduation. The student internship requirement is a critical element of every student's construction management degree. |ret||ret||tab|

To be eligible to participate as a partner in the education of future construction industry leaders, interested employers should contact the SMSU department of industrial management or Career Services Office and complete a construction management master internship agreement. |ret||ret||tab|

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