Celebrating National Intern Day

Welcome to Owner Impacts, a series dedicated to showcasing innovations, solutions, and leadership driven by our employee-owners—and powered by our people-first culture.

In celebration of National Intern Day, we asked some of our current employee-owners, who started their Shawmut journey as interns, to provide advice for current interns. From how to make the most out of their internship to the skills needed for long-term success, here’s what they said.

Shawmut Intern Experience:

• 2021: Estimating Intern, Boston

What advice do you have for current interns to make the most out of their internship at Shawmut?

“Be curious and ask plenty of questions. Get as involved as possible: attend site walks, sit in on meetings you may not be fully involved in, and so on. The more you see and experience, the more you learn.”

Shawmut Intern Experience:

• 2017: Project Management Intern, Providence

What’s one thing you wish you’d known before starting at Shawmut?

“I wish I had known how welcoming Shawmut truly is. I expected my time at Shawmut to be similar to my experience at school, but I was wrong. Shawmut has created an environment where asking questions and learning through trial and error are encouraged.”

Shawmut Intern Experience:

• 2021: Project Management Intern, Miami

What advice would you give to a current intern to stand out during their internship at Shawmut? 

“See yourself as a valuable member of the team and speak up. You might have a great idea that nobody else has thought of. I have also found that clear communication, building strong relationships, being willing to be uncomfortable, and owning your mistakes are characteristics that will set you apart during your internship. These traits will allow you to gain the trust and respect of your fellow interns, managers, colleagues, and clients.”

Shawmut Intern Experience:

• 2004: Estimating Intern, Boston

What advice do you have for current interns to make the most out of their internship at Shawmut?

“As we say at Shawmut, own it! Own your career and your internship. The more involved you are in the project and the more questions you ask, the more you will learn and get out of your time here.”

Shawmut Intern Experience:

• 2019: Group Finance Intern, Los Angeles

What attributes, traits, or skills do you attribute to long term success at Shawmut?

“Confidence is key. Take initiative whenever you get the chance. Everyone makes mistakes, but owning up to them will build your credibility, and learning from them will set you apart from many.”

Shawmut Intern Experience:

• 2018: Project Management Intern, Los Angeles

What advice do you have for current interns to make the most out of their internship at Shawmut?

“Don’t be afraid to speak up and be curious. If you’re interested in seeing different types of projects or sectors of construction, let your manager know. There are lots of opportunities for site visits or to shadow someone. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to ask. Putting yourself out there and talking to more people will help you develop both personally and in your career.”