CoSci students connect with top builders at job fair in Bastrop

A fast-paced job fair connected some of the state’s leading building companies with [construction science] (http://cosc.arch.tamu.edu/) students at Texas A&M during a convention hosted by the [Associated General Contractors of Texas] (http://www.agctbb.org) .

The June 11, 2014 event, part of AGC Texas’ Building Branch annual [meeting] (http://www.agctbb.org/#!agc-tbb-convention/cken) in Bastrop, Texas at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa, was modeled after the speed dating concept, in which people sit at a table for a few minutes at a time to familiarize each other with prospective partners.

But students weren’t looking for love — they were seeking jobs and/or internships and sharpening their interview skills by talking with representatives from 11 of the state’s top builders, including [Construction Industry Advisory Council] (http://cosc.arch.tamu.edu/industry/) members [Joeris General Contractors] (http://joeris.com/) , [Turner Construction] (http://www.turnerconstruction.com/) , [SpawGlass] (http://www.spawglass.com/) and [Baker Triangle] (http://www.bakertriangle.com/) .

It was a diverse mix from all levels in the construction science program, ranging from students enrolled in their first lower level classes as well as upper level and graduate students, said George Eustace, senior lecturer and industry relations coordinator for the Department of Construction Science. Eustace prepped the students on the bus ride to Bastrop, providing pointers on what to expect and items of interest about the companies.

Each student, who had researched each of the builders prior to the event, had the opportunity to mix with company representatives for five minutes at a time, said Eustace.

“I learned that when applying for work I need to narrow my focus to one or two industry sectors I am passionate about,” said Daryl Johnston, an undergraduate student.  “It also helped settle my nerves during the interview process and gave me a few speaking topics when I introduce myself.”

Fellow undergraduate Julio Ramon Jr. said he learned that knocking on trailer doors at construction sites and asking to speak to someone about a job opportunity is a lot more helpful than just mailing a resume/cover letter to company offices.

“I also learned what a resume or business card should look like and how to make my responses to interview questions more concise and positive,” he said.