Real-World Learning: Bryson Rodriguez’s Internship with READY Construction

The energy on a READY Construction job site is palpable, a testament to the collaborative effort of skilled individuals bringing architectural visions to life. These past few months, one eager participant absorbing it all is Bryson Rodriguez, an intern diligently gaining invaluable real-world experience on the Murphy USA project in Allen, TX as he completes his Construction Science degree at Texas A&M University.

For Bryson, stepping onto the Murphy site has been a pivotal moment, translating the theoretical knowledge acquired in the classroom into the tangible realities of construction management. Under the mentorship of READY Construction Superintendent Michael Thibodeau and Project Managers Charles Vachon and Tyler Fischer, he’s been fully immersed in the daily rhythms and intricate processes that define a construction project from the ground up. From the initial site logistics to the careful oversight of ongoing work, Bryson is witnessing firsthand the multifaceted responsibilities of a superintendent on a significant undertaking.

“It’s cool to see the job progress every day. It has been beneficial seeing each of the steps that must take place for the big finish to occur,” Bryson said. “It has been fun to be on the job site to learn and just take everything in. I enjoy it so much.”

His days at the Murphy project are a dynamic blend of active observation and practical learning. He participates in site briefings, meticulously documenting progress, potential hurdles, and the proactive strategies implemented to navigate them. Shadowing the superintendent during site walks has allowed him to develop a keen eye for safety protocols, quality control measures, and the importance of adhering to project blueprints and specifications. He’s also gaining crucial insights into the art of communication, observing how the superintendent effectively interacts with a diverse range of stakeholders, including subcontractors, engineers, and project managers.

“Both the superintendent and project manager have been great mentors on the Murphy project,” Bryson notes. “Tyler Fischer and even the executive leadership at the company like Brendon Hollier have always taken the time to explain the reasoning behind different decisions and encourage me to ask questions. It’s a supportive learning environment.”

For READY Construction, providing opportunities like Bryson’s internship on the Murphy project is a strategic investment in the future of the construction industry. It allows them to connect with promising young talent and contribute to their professional development. By offering a hands-on, challenging, and supportive environment on an active job site, READY aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and the practical demands of the field.

Bryson’s immersion in the Murphy project is proving to be an invaluable extension of his studies at Texas A&M. He’s witnessing the direct application of construction science principles, solidifying his understanding of concepts like scheduling, resource allocation, and risk management. Whether it’s observing the sequencing of different trades or understanding the importance of meticulous documentation, the lessons learned on this single, significant job site are providing a focused and impactful learning experience.

While the Murphy project represents his initial foray into the real world of construction with READY Construction, the depth of experience Bryson is gaining is undeniable. He’s not just observing the construction of a building; he’s building a fundamental understanding of the industry. The practical insights gleaned from his time on the Murphy site, combined with his academic foundation from Texas A&M, are laying a strong groundwork for a successful future in construction.

READY is excited to announce that Bryson will continue his internship with the company throughout the summer, further solidifying his skills and contributing to future projects.